Phosphorous Metabolism of Brain

This small book amply fulfills the promise of its title; it is one of the best books on a specific aspect of brain metabolism to appear in recent years. The first two chapters cover phosphorus metabolism in the brain in vivo and include studies on the levels of phosphorylated compounds in the brain under various conditions. In addition, changes in the phosphate levels in the developing brain are also considered. The next three chapters are concerned with experiments in vitro on phosphate metabolism. These discussions are followed by a chapter in which the author attempts to integrate our knowledge on phosphate metabolism. The final chapter consists of an appendix listing the recommended techniques for studying phosphate derivatives in cerebral tissues. Not merely a compilation of data on this subject, the author constantly and critically assesses the experimental findings with regard to the techniques that were employed. In addition, Dr. Heald does not fail to see the forest for the trees and continually attempts to relate function to metabolism. That this marriage is rarely successful is not due to an inadequacy if the author but reflects primarily the deficiency of our knowledge of cerebral events. Finally, for the novitiate in this field, the detailed descriptions on the preparation of tissues and determination of phosphorylated compounds will be of immense assistance. One error noted in the author index was the assignment of references for T. M. Brody to B. B. Brodie. JACK R. COOPER