The fourth edition of Textbook of Biochemistry is a comprehensive introduction to the basic concepts of biochemistry for undergraduate students of medicine. It covers all the topics and core competencies specified by the MCI in its 'competency-based undergraduate curriculum' effective from August 2019. The topics are developed in a manner that encourages students to think analytically as opposed to memory-based learning. Links between biochemistry and other medical subjects provided throughout the book help to reinforce this approach. A consistent feature of the book is the liberal use of illustrations, tabular layouts and highlighted text, which makes the assimilation and recall of the inherently complex aspects of biochemistry easy.

In this edition, descriptions of topics which may fall under the category of additional reading have been set off from the regular text in a smaller font size to distinguish them from the essential content. This feature, along with comprehensive chapter summaries will help students to optimise the time spent in revising for examinations. The chapter-end exercises comprising review questions, MCQs, case studies, riddles and other problems will further enhance the revision experience. The problems-based exercises and case studies often reveal additional insights on the core concepts covered in the book.

Rafi MD obtained his MBBS degree from Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal, and MD from Gandhi Medical College, Hyderabad. He is currently the Dean and Medical Director at Surabhi Medical College, Siddipet.