"Recent determination of the genome sequences for a wide range of bacteria has made an in-depth knowledge of prokaryotic metabolic function even more essential in order to give biochemical, physiological and ecological meaning to the genomic information. Clearly describing the important metabolic processes that occur in prokaryotes under different conditions and in different environments, this advanced text provides an overview of the key cellular processes that determine bacterial roles in the environment, biotechnology and human health. Prokaryotic structure and composition are described as well as the means by which nutrients are transported into cells across membranes. Discussion of biosynthesis and growth is followed by detailed accounts of glucose metabolism through glycolysis, the TCA cycle, electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, as well as other trophic variations found in prokaryotes including the use of organic compounds other than glucose, anaerobic fermentation, anaerobic respiration, chemolithotrophy and photosynthesis. The regulation of metabolism through control of gene expression and enzyme activity is also covered, as well as the survival mechanisms used under starvation conditions."--BOOK JACKET.