this new topics series is an offspring of our well established series structure and bonding. the foundation of tbic reflects the importance research has gained at the interface of inorganic and biological chemistry in the past years. biological inorganic chemistry is a field of research at the interface of inorganic and biological chemistry. the rapidly developing insights into the role of metals in biological systems has far-reaching implications not only for biological science but also for related disciplines, ranging from molecular medicine to the environment. in each volume the reader, whether engaged in chemistry, biochemistry, biology or molecular medicine, receives a comprehensive summary and critical overview of a topic of high current interest written by leading international experts.