Book excerpt: X-Ray Fluorescence in Biological Sciences Discover a comprehensive exploration of X-ray fluorescence in chemical biology and the clinical and plant sciences In X-Ray Fluorescence in Biological Sciences: Principles, Instrumentation, and Applications, a team of accomplished researchers delivers extensive coverage of the application of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) in the biological sciences, including chemical biology, clinical science, and plant science. The book also explores recent advances in XRF imaging techniques in these fields. The authors focus on understanding and investigating the intercellular structures and metals in plant cells, with advanced discussions of recently developed micro-analytical methods, like energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF), total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF), micro-proton induced X-ray emission (micro-PIXE), electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA), synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy (SXRF, SRIXE, or micro-XRF) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). With thorough descriptions of protocols and practical approaches, the book also includes: A thorough introduction to the historical background and fundamentals of X-ray fluorescence, as well as recent developments in X-ray fluorescence analysis Comprehensive explorations of the general properties, production, and detection of X-rays and the preparation of samples for X-ray fluorescence analysis Practical discussions of the quantification of prepared samples observed under X-ray fluorescence and the relation between precision and beam size and sample amount In-depth examinations of wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence and living materials Perfect for students and researchers studying the natural and chemical sciences, medical biology, plant physiology, agriculture, and botany, X-Ray Fluorescence in Biological Sciences: Principles, Instrumentation, and Applications will also earn a place in the libraries of researchers at biotechnology companies.