The Science of Antibiotics Demystified
This book deals with the bacterial group Streptomyces, whose ability to make a wide range of useful antibiotics and other compounds has made them the subject of intense research for decades. This field of research has been a shining example of how great science can be accomplished in a spirit of co-operation and openness, largely due to the influence of major players such as the author himself.
The book is a mix of memoir and scientific overview that makes it easy to read, and gives the reader a personal reference point in the way that a textbook doesn't. The writing is not overly technical and should be fine for any intelligent reader with an interest in science.
It begins by describing the origins of our interest in these bacteria, goes on to tell of the "golden age" of antibiotic discovery and takes us through the DNA revolution of the nineties and the amazing steps forward during that time. The author gives us a look at current research and what might happen in the future, addressing the complex problem of antibiotic resistance.
There are two reasons why David Hopwood is the only person who could have written this book: 1) he has been pre-eminent in the field of Streptomyces research for about fifty years, and 2) he has an ability to communicate both scientific facts and his own great enthusiasm for his subject that is rare indeed. We are lucky that he has found the time to give us a glimpse of this fascinating and important subject from his unique perspective.
