The Fourth Edition of Microbial Physiology retains the logical, easy-to-follow organization of the previous editions. An introduction to cell structure and synthesis of cell components is provided, followed by detailed discussions of genetics, metabolism, growth, and regulation for anyone wishing to understand the mechanisms underlying cell survival and growth. This comprehensive reference approaches the subject from a modern molecular genetic perspective, incorporating new insights gained from various genome projects.

Dr. Moat spent over 20 years as professor at Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia. In 1978 he became Chairman of the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, Huntington, WV.

Dr. Foster is professor of Microbiology and Immunology, and director of the Laboratory of Salmonella and E. coli Genetics at the University of South Alabama, College of Medicine in Mobile. He teaches courses in Medical Microbiology and Microbial Physiology and has published over 80 papers on the molecular strategies used by bacteria to survive environmental stresses.

Dr. Spector is professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of South Alabama in Mobile. He teaches courses on Immunology and Medical Microbiology and runs the Laboratory of Molecular and Bacterial Genetics and Physiology.