by Viqar Zaman (Former Head of Department of Microbiology, National University of Singapore, Singapore)

As diverse as they are interesting, the issues within the life sciences never fail to impress and stir controversy among the lay public. In a field that too often presents the general reader with challenging and confusing material, this book provides a breath of fresh air: a readable, standalone collection of essays that navigate the complex terrain of cells, cloning, and Mad Cows.

The second edition of this popular book is thoroughly updated with the latest issues, information, and statistics in the same readable and vividly illustrated format. A new chapter on organ transplantation looks at advances in immunology and the discovery of immunosuppressive drugs, which have contributed significantly to the success rate of these surgeries. Another new section tackles the fascinating subject of heredity, considering its historical background and Mendel's discoveries, genetically determined diseases, and the importance of genetic counseling.

Illustrating how art, philosophy and mythology juxtapose yet complement scientific thought and evolution, the inclusion of poems and quotes at the end of each chapter serve to make this book truly unique.

• In Search of Truth
• From Molecules to Cell
• From Inanimate to Animate
• The Mother of All Cells
• Cells Out of Control
• Extending the Range of Vision
• On Life's Fringes
• A Friend and a Foe
• The Mouldy World
• The Unwanted Guests
• Mad Cows and Toxic Proteins
• Arthropods as Agents of Disease
• The Never-Ending Battle
• Bolstering Defenses
• Microbes and Weapons
• Sex and Survival
• Do Microbes Possess Consciousness?
• Nature's Clocks
• The Plant Kingdom
• The Long March of Evolution
• Making Clones
• Replacing Body Parts
• Heredity and Disease
• The End Game