This series of four topical volumes includes more than 50 contributions covering all aspects of the molecular biology and physiology of controlled protein breakdown in higher organisms via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. The editors and authors comprise virtually all the top scientists in the field, including the pioneers of protein degradation research and the 2004 Nobel laureate in chemistry.Each volume highlights a different aspect of the field, namely ubiquitin and the chemistry of life, as well as the cell biology and pathology of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, with the individual volumes featuring their own separate indices. Together, all four volumes provide the most comprehensive reference on protein degradation available.