This book provides a concise set of protocols for assessing basic neutrophil functions, investigating specialized areas in neutrophil research, and completing step-by-step diagnostic assays of common neutrophil disorders. Each of the protocols is written by leading researchers in the field and includes hints for success, as well as guidance for troubleshooting. Scientists and clinicians will find this collection an invaluable aid.

This essential methods manual for immunohematologists (or hematologists and immunohematologists) provides information on genes that encode antigens on red blood cells, platelets and neutrophils. The book begins by covering general concepts in molecular biology and specific protocols such as DNA preparation, PCR-RFLP and allele-specific PCR. Information on the erythrocyte, platelet and neutrophil antigen systems and the molecular basis of polymorphisms are presented clearly in a gene facts sheet format. Database accession numbers and useful adjuncts such as Request forms, worksheets for PCR/enzyme digests also serve to benefit the user. The information is clearly presented and easily accessible and is complemented by the excellent diagrams and tabular material. This book is invaluable for both new and experienced researchers in the field and other related disciplines. Essential for hematologists and those involoved in tissue typing and the study of human genetic polymorphisms Presents clearly and concisely the information on a particular variant and the technique used to detect it Organized by antigen and provides sequences of polymorphisms and primers Details the general concepts and critical information on genes, their products, and sources of relevant nucleic acids Includes protocols that allow investigators to set up assays with minimal effort (protocols include primers, reagents, reaction conditions, sizes of amplified products, restriction fragment digests, and the relevant safety information) Provides information that helps interpret results in clinical settings Contains additional sources of information (e.g., key references, web site addresses, glossary, Database accession numbers, request forms, and worksheets for PCR/enzyme digests)

The innate immune system represents a critical arm of the immune response by providing immediate and robust host defense; however, human studies of its function are often limited by ethical, logistical, and technical obstacles. In Mouse Models of Innate Immunity: Methods and Protocols, experts in the field explore the design and execution of experiments used to thoroughly evaluate critical elements associated with the host innate immune response. The volume opens with methods that are essential for collecting and assessing various primary cells that are highly relevant to innate immunity, and it continues with in vivo protocols commonly used to evaluate the innate immune response in the mouse, including mouse models of respiratory infection, gastrointestinal inflammation, fungal and parasitic diseases, sepsis, and HIV-1 infection. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and easy to use, Mouse Models of Innate Immunity: Methods and Protocols will serve the research community by providing expert advice and protocols that allow both experienced and novice investigators to successfully plan, implement, and assess disease processes associated with the innate immune response.

Lorette Javois' timely new 2nd edition revises and updates her widely acclaimed collection of step-by-step immunocytochemical methods, one that is now used in many biological and biomedical research programs. The methods are designed for researchers and clinicians who wish to visualize molecules in plant or animal embryos, tissue sections, cells, or organelles. In addition to cutting-edge protocols for purifying and preparing antibodies, light microscopic analysis, confocal microscopy, FACS, and electron microscopy, this revised edition contains many new methods for applying immunocytochemical techniques in the clinical laboratory and in combination with in situ hybridization.

This volume details experimental approaches used to investigate phagocytosis and phagosome maturation. Chapters present methods and protocols on quantifying uptake and phagosome maturation using biophysical and biochemical approaches, proteomics, microscopy, and flow cytometry. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Phagocytosis and Phagosomes: Methods and Protocols aims to be an important resource for both experts in the field and for those investigators delving into phagocytosis and phagosome maturation for the first time.

This book is specifically about the application of the extremely powerful interaction between the protein avidin or its homologues and the vitamin biotin and some of its homologues. With excellent descriptions of laboratory protocols written by expert researchers, this volume is equally perfect for the student or the professional laboratory scientist.

This book presents a compendium of methodologies for the study of membrane lipids, varying from traditional lab bench experimentation to computer simulation and theoretical models. The volume provides a comprehensive set of techniques for studying membrane lipids with a strong biophysical emphasis. It compares the various available techniques including the pros and cons as seen by the experts.