Focusing on a century-long pursuit, this book explores the intriguing journey to develop a malaria vaccine. It vividly captures the excitement and challenges faced by researchers, highlighting both their successes and setbacks. Written in an engaging manner, it makes complex scientific endeavors approachable for a general audience, showcasing the relentless spirit of innovation in the fight against malaria.
Drugs are used in the diagnosis, alleviation, treatment, prevention or cure of disease. This is a book about drugs, how they came to be, and how they exert their ‘magic’. Today we have drugs to protect against infectious diseases, to alleviate aches and pains, to allow new organs to replace the old, and for brain functions to be modified. Yet, for the most part the manner by which drugs are developed and by whom remains a mystery. Drugs are more than just a pill or liquid and some have markedly altered history. The author has selected a few drugs – highlights representing milestones affecting our well-being and influencers of social change. The stories told are dramatic and include spectacular successes and dismal failures. And the people about whom these stories are told are both saints and sinners – selfless and conniving – bold and mercurial and shy and retiring loner. The drugs themselves mirror the diversity of their origin stories and the author assembles all sides of these fascinating stories. Key Selling
A fascinating examination of epidemic diseases within a historical context. • Describes the nature and evolution of diseases.• Explains how scientists discovered the causes of infectious diseases and outlines how controls were developed.• Examines the interrelationship between plagues and culture and details the ways this shaped the traditions and institutions of Western civilization.• Highlights current epidemics such as AIDS, cholera, tuberculosis, influenza, West Nile virus, mad cow disease, and others.• Addresses the public’s curiosity with outbreaks and diseases of public health concern.
Focusing on the groundbreaking Plasmodium falciparum Genome Project, this book delves into the biology of malaria parasites and their mosquito vectors, exploring the project's inception and its key contributors. It highlights the potential of genetic insights to inform the development of antimalarial drugs and vaccines, improve understanding of the parasite's life cycle, and enhance transmission control measures. With a historical perspective, the book serves as an accessible entry point for newcomers and a valuable resource for experienced scientists, linking past discoveries to future research directions.