This first book dedicated to the topic relates the known physiological functions of porins to their molecular structure and mechanism, as documented by various in vitro and in vivo methods, including the generation of null mutants in mice. For the first time, it brings together biophysical evidence with studies performed in a cellular context, presenting a unified picture of the fundamental importance of porins for cellular function. With 16 contributions by an interdisciplinary team of leading porin researchers, this reference is essential reading for every molecular or structural biologist with an interest in this essential protein family.