Springer Echinodermata: 39 Progress in Molecular Biology

Explore the biological complexity of one of the most familiar marine invertebrate phyla with this scientific volume from Springer. As part of the Progress in Molecular and Subcellular Biology series, this book provides a detailed look at the organisms that have become symbols of sea life, such as the sea star. This text examines the diverse applications of echinoderms in modern science. While sea cucumbers, sea stars, and sea urchins were used in ancient oriental medicine, they are now central to the extraction and purification of compounds with cytotoxic, haemolytic, antiviral, antifungal, antifouling, antimicrobial, and anti-tumoural activities. Beyond pharmacology, the book addresses the economic importance of these organisms. It covers how sea urchins and sea cucumbers serve as significant resources within current fishery and aquaculture industries. This volume is an essential resource for professionals and researchers studying molecular and cell biology in marine environments.