Book excerpt: This book provides valuable information for investigators interested in the signaling and regulatory functions of adenosine and the adenine nucleotides. Topics covered in this comprehensive volume include the historical development of research on adenosine and adenosine triphosphate; various aspects of the formation, metabolism, release, transport, and receptors for endogenous adenosine and the adenosine triphosphate; functions of purines at the cellular level; the role of adenosine in the regulation of flow in different vascular beds; and angiogenesis. The book also addresses the purinergic regulation of the cardiac, renal, gastro-intestinal, and central nervous system, as well as potential therapeutic avenues for purine use. The book will be valuable to physiologists, pharmacologists, and other basic and clinical scientists interested in updating their knowledge of the expanding biological roles of these substances.