This volume explores updated and entirely new experimental approaches used to investigate phagocytosis and phagosome maturation. In order to aid in the study of engulfment, maturation, resolution, and pathogen manipulation of phagocytes, the book features methodology to quantify uptake and maturation specific to certain phagocytes, particles, or pathogens, while other chapters offer methods that can be applied generically across the field. Methods are presented to study phagocytosis and phagosome maturation in vivo, in cellulo, and through in vitro analyses. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step and readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and up-to-date, Phagocytosis and Phagosomes: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition serves as a vital resource for both experts in the field as well as for investigators delving into phagocytosis and phagosome maturation for the first time.

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.

Autophagy and phagocytosis are distinct yet partially morphologically similar processes. Understanding them is vital for the studies of cancer, aging, neurodegeneration, immunology, and infectious diseases. This book presents autophagosome and phagosome methods for novices and advanced researchers alike. Comprehensive and forward-thinking, the book offers a valuable guide to both cellular processes while inciting researchers to explore their potentially important connections.

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Phagocytosis is the engulfment of particulate matter by cells. It is a fundamental (and probably “primitive”) cell biological process which is important in single celled organisms such as amoeba; multicellular animals including coelenterates; and in higher animals. In humans and other mammals, specialised immune cells (phagocytes) utilise phagocytosis in their crucial role of engulfing and destroying infecting microbes. Yet, surprisingly, the biophysics and biochemistry underlying the process has only become clear recently with the advent of genetic manipulation and advances in single cell imaging. In this volume, the aim is to bring together recent fundamental advances that give a clear picture of the underlying mechanism involved in phagocytosis. Not only is this an important topic in its own right, but a full understanding of the process will have a potential impact on human medicine, since as antibiotics become less effective in fight infection, researchers are looking at alternative approaches, including enhancing the “natural” immunity brought about by immune phagocytes. The aim is to provide a comprehensive volume on the topic, with separate chapters on identified recent advances, each written by the major contributors in each area. In addition, the volume will attempt to give a wider overview than is often the case in single author reviews, with an emphasis here on the cell biological understanding of phagocytosis using biophysical approaches alongside the biochemical and imaging approaches.

Autophagy and phagocytosis are distinct yet partially morphologically similar processes. Understanding them is vital for the studies of cancer, aging, neurodegeneration, immunology, and infectious diseases. This book presents autophagosome and phagosome methods for novices and advanced researchers alike. Comprehensive and forward-thinking, the book offers a valuable guide to both cellular processes while inciting researchers to explore their potentially important connections.