Review by
Bente Ojeniyi Department of Veterinary Microbiology, The Roval Veterinary University, Stigböjlen 4, 1870 Frederiksberg C Denmark International Journal of Food Microbiology 57 (2000): 141-142.
This book on Intracellular Ribozyme Applications is edited by two authors, and has a formidable list of some fifty-eight contributors dispersed over a wide range of specialities in the
ever expanding realm of molecular biology. The book is divided into seven sections, with each
section devoted to various aspects ranging from
In Vitro and In Vivo selection, In Vitro Kinetics, Expression, Delivery Systems, Detection and Pharmacodynamics to Applications of Ribozymes in gene therapy of the deadly Human Immunodeficiency Virus and even of melon plants against potyviruses. Different approaches are touched upon with regard to chemical synthesis
and engineering of these RNA-cleaving enzymes to execute specific functions. The structure of
the chapters is reminiscent of scientific articles published in learned journals with arrangements
into abstracts and introduction followed by the specific theme covered by each chapter. Despite
this structure however, the book does not merely assemble an array of selected pieces out of
the hundreds of articles that have emerged over the last decade since advances in
genome sequencing had raised awareness of the increasing significance of Ribozymes in elucidating
gene function and fighting disease. On the contrary, emphasis is laid on the many
possiblities embedded in Ribozyme development and application for medicine and science communities.
The book presents its varied materials with a good outline of its contents enabling the
astute medicine or science researcher to scan through it, and pinpoint his/her specific area(s) of
interest. In this wise, the book serves as a versatile reference source for the inquisitive and the
renovative minds.
While the book is characterised by quality and very sophisticated innovative
methodologies, little room exists for novices who may wish to gain introduction into the fascinating world
of Ribozyme technology. Obviously, the target users are those already initiated into the
exclusive club of technocrats whose tools are RNA molecules. These apart, although the protocols are
well set out, it may be remarked that in general, the contents are pretty concentrated, and it would
be desirable if the illustrations were more detailed with three dimensional reproductions, were
this possible. On the other hand, and as pointed out earlier, this work is meant for experts or
expert aspirants who have previous and appreciable knowledge of the discipline.
So perhaps it is not surprising that this was not felt to be a compelling exercise. Colour
always adds to the value of text and illustrations, and leaves an enduring visual memorv, but
then publishing costs have to be borne in mind, if the very users are not to be frightened off the
book shelves.
