Francesco Parenti Libri

In this translation of the Italian second edition, the authors provide a comprehensive account of the current knowledge on antibiotics. They concisely describe how various scientific disciplines are involved in antibiotics research, development, and use. Their work also discusses the industrial and clinical development of new antibiotics, as well as the questions and controversies related to the function of antibiotics in nature. Antibiotics is richly illustrated with clear chemical structures, drawings, diagrams, and synoptical tables.

The book explores the multifaceted role of antibiotics in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology, highlighting their significance in human and veterinary health, plant protection, and genetic engineering. It addresses the complexities of antibiotic production, involving various professionals, and emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of their biosynthetic pathways. Born from teaching experiences at the University of Pavia and the University of Milan, it fills a gap in literature by providing a comprehensive overview of antibiotic science, combining theoretical insights with practical applications.