michael williams comprehensive new survey volume of adenosine and adenosine receptors highlights the phenomenal progress made during the last decade in understanding the roles of adenosine and related purines in tissue function. it also focuses on receptor subtypes and the search for selective ligands and the development of radioligand binding assays that were instrumental in advancing research in this important area. since adenosine was first found to be a potent hypotensive agent 60 years ago, many pharmaceutical companies have exhibited great interest in designing new adenosine receptor ligands, as well as agonists and antagonists, specifically aimed at developing promising new drugs. in addition, adenosine and purinergic systems have since been found to be integrally involved in the function of virtually every body system. leading experts in the field have contributed a wealth of information here, and the books chapters include coverage of:? historical perspectives ? radioligand binding assays ? signal transduction mechanisms ? electrophysiological aspects ? structure-activity relationships of adenosine a1 and a2 receptors ? adenosine release ? markers of adenosine metabolism and transport in central purinergic systems ? adenosine in cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, and cns function ? adenosine and host defense modulation ? future trends. adenosine and adenosine receptors is an indispensable resource for everyone involved in receptor research, pharmacology, biochemistry, and related fields.