Over the last decade, the field of plant lipids has changed almost beyond recognition. New research tools have revealed many surprising aspects of the dynamic nature of lipids in processes like recognition, signalling, deterrence, defence, membrane trafficking and protein function. This is in addition to further information on the more established roles of plant lipids as structural components of membranes and as long-term storage products. Plant lipids are now at the centre of an intense debate about their nutritional role and their possible contribution to a healthier diet, and they are increasingly being seen as sources of a new generation of environmentally friendly, biodegradable and renewable industrial products, including biopolymers and high grade lubricants. This volume provides a broad, contemporary review of plant lipid biology and its applications, drawing on recent advances in cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, genomics, molecular biology and genetic engineering. It is directed at researchers and professionals in plant biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology and genetics, in both the academic and industrial sectors.