As research in plant metabolism and molecular biology continues to make great progress it has become essential for plant scientists to have an overview of both disciplines. With this in mind, the editors of this volume present a timely and comprehensive textbook.The book begins with the mechanisms by which energy is generated within both chloroplasts and mitochondria, using either the photosynthetic light reactions or the metabolism of carbohydrates via glycolysis and the Krebs cycle. It continues with photosynthetic carbon and nitrogen metabolism and nitrogen fixation and the way in which this carbon and nitrogen is utilized in the synthesis of various products. The structure of the genome in the nucleus, chloroplasts and mitochondria is described, as is the regulation of gene expression, the control of development and finally the technology of genetic manipulation of plants.Drawing on their own teaching and research experience the editors and contributors have provided a unique and generously illustrated overview of plant metabolism and molecular biology. This textbook will be an invaluable aid to undergraduate and postgraduate students in the plant sciences and to all those requiring an introduction to current concepts in plant metabolism.