Book excerpt: Molecular biotechnology continues to triumph, as this textbook testifies - edited by one of the academic pioneers in the field and written by experienced professionals. This completely revised second edition covers the entire spectrum, from the fundamentals of molecular and cell biology, via an overview of standard methods and technologies, the application of the various "-omics", and the development of novel drug targets, right up to the significance of system biology in biotechnology. The whole is rounded off by an introduction to industrial biotechnology as well as chapters on company foundation, patent law and marketing. The new edition features: - Large format and full color throughout - Proven structure according to basics, methods, main topics and economic perspectives - New sections on system biology, RNA interference, microscopic techniques, high throughput sequencing, laser applications, biocatalysis, current biomedical applications and drug approval - Optimized teaching with learning targets, a glossary containing around 800 entries, over 500 important abbreviations and further reading. The only resource for those who are seriously interested in the topic. Bonus material available online free of charge: www.wiley-vch.de/home/molecbiotech