Bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria) are fascinating organisms that have played and continue to play a key role in bacterial genetics and molecular biology. Phage can confer key phenotypes on their host for example, converting a non-pathogenic strain into a pathogen and they play a key role in regulating bacterial populations in all sorts of environments. The phage-bacterium relationship varies enormously, from the simple predator-prey model to a complex, almost symbiotic relationship that promotes the survival and evolutionary success of both. While infection of bacteria used in the fermentation industry can be very problematic and result in financial losses, in other scenarios, phage infection of bacteria can be exploited for industrial and/or medical applications. Interest in phage and phage gene products as potential therapeutic agents is increasing rapidly and is likely to have a profound impact on the pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology in general over the comi

This unique book is concerned with the general principles and theories of population ecology, based on the idea that the rules governing the dynamics of populations are relatively simple, and that the rich behavior we observe in nature is a consequence of the structure of the system rather than of the complexity of the underlying rules. From this perspective, the dynamic behavior of single-species populations is examined and an elementary feedback model of the population system is developed. This single-species model is refined and generalized by examining the mechanisms of population regulation.

This volume contains the texts of lectures and posters presented at the Sixth European Conference on the Spectroscopy of Biological Molecules (ECSBM), held at the "Universite des Sciences et Technologies de Lille," Villeneuve d'Ascq, France rd th from 3 to 8 September 1995 at the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the Conference. During a NATO Summer School "Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy of Biological Molecules," organized by C. Sandorfy and T. Theophanides in Maratea (Italy) in 1983, a group of spectroscopists decided to organize a regular European meeting to check the lastest research results obtained by the different groups working in this field and to promote new cooperation between spectroscopists, biophysicists, biochemists and physicians. Since then ECSBM has been held biennially at Reims, France (1985), Freiburg, Germany (1987), Rimini, Italy (1989), York, United Kingdom (1991) and Loutraki, Greece (1993). The great increase in both the number of participants in this International Conference and in their countries of origin (from many countries outside as well as within Europe) during the last ten years has proved the necessity of this kind of meeting and the prosperity of this field of research.

* Takes a unique perspective by examining political ideology and behaviour via evolutionary psychology and genetics to explain conservative and liberal differences * Fascinating reading for students and academics in psychology, the social sciences, and humanities, as well as general readers interested in political behavior * Explores the potential future of political behavior and participation in relation to possible consequences of evolution and genetics

Marine biology has always played an important role in biological research, being at the origin of many key advances. To a certain extent, the influence of marine biology on the biological sciences was overshadowed over a period of several years by the remarkable advances that were made using powerful model organisms from terrestrial environments. This situation is now changing again, however, due primarily to spectacular developments in genomic methodologies that have significantly accelerated research in a broad spectrum of marine biology disciplines ranging from biodiversity to developmental biology to biotechnology. The data generated by marine genomics projects have had an impact on questions as diverse as understanding planetary geochemical cycles, the impact of climate change on marine fauna and flora, the functioning of marine ecosystems, the discovery of new organisms and novel biomolecules, and investigation of the evolution of animal developmental complexity. This book represents the first attempt to document how genomic technologies are revolutionising these diverse domains of marine biology. Each chapter of this book looks at how these technologies are being employed in a specific domain of marine research and provides a summary of the major results obtained to date. The book as a whole provides an overview of marine genomics as a discipline and represents an ideal starting point for exploring this rapidly developing domain.

This volume provides methods used to investigate histone methyltransferase function. Chapters guide readers through a comprehensive set of approaches that detail phylogenetic diversity, histone demethylase activities in vitro, generating chromatin substrates, auto-methylation, quantification of metabolites, protein purification, crystallization, X-ray structure, cryogenic electron microscopy, assessing genome-wide patterns, CUT&Tag in mouse embryonic tissues, chemical biology approaches, peptide SPOT arrays, nascent chromatin capture, ectopic protein tethering, computational models, and development of methyltransferase inhibitors. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Histone Methyltransferases: Methods and Protocols aims to be a useful and practical guide to new researchers and experts looking to expand their knowledge.

Giving a fresh, substantial and in-depth overview of the topic, this book brings together the latest results in the field of metabolomics. It comprehensively presents the current state of the metabolomics field by underscoring experimental methods, analysis techniques, standardization practices, and advances in specific model systems. As a result, it helps to significantly broaden our perspective on the principles and strategies underpinning this emerging field.

Many genes have been cloned from chicken cells, and during the next decade numerous laboratories will be concentrating their resources in developing ways of using these tools. Manipulation of the Avian Genome contains the most recent information from leading research laboratories in the areas of developmental and molecular genetics of the chicken. This information was presented at the Keystone Symposium held at Lake Tahoe in March, 1991. The book discusses potential applications of emerging technology in basic science and poultry production. Various techniques for altering genomic DNA, such as microinjection, retroviral vectors, and lipofection are covered. Genome evaluation using DNA fingerprinting and conventional breeding techniques are presented.

Pocket Guide to Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice is an abbreviated, pocket-size, quick-reference guide that provides a point-by-point synopsis of the vast wealth of information contained in CRC Handbook of Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice. All sections and subsections in the Pocket Guide are cross-referenced to corresponding pages in the Handbook. The book works well on its own as a quick reference, but also can be used in conjunction with the larger Handbook for detailed coverage and references to specific information. Pocket Guide to Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice also includes extensive supplements featuring material not included in the Handbook. These are intended to provide an up-dated, practical source of information useful to anyone involved in molecular diagnostic research and/or service. Supplements are cross-referenced to the main text of the Pocket Guide, that complement and enhance the material covered. Pocket Guide to Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice will be a handy reference for professionals and students in pathology, biotechnology, biology, and medicine.

Epigenetic modifications comprise heritable gene expression changes that occur without alteration of the DNA sequence and 'co-act' with genetic factors to shape development processes and evolutionary trajectories. Multicellular organisms receive different types of environmental stimuli/stresses that trigger epigenetic modifications during development. These environmentally driven mechanisms represent an underlying cause of phenotypic diversity, especially in metazoans. This book aims to present some of the latest epigenetic insights into the development of metazoans (including humans) as an intersection between their ecology and evolution.

Genetic investigations and manipulations of bacteria and bacteriophage have made vital contributions to our basic understanding of living cells and to the development of molecular biology and biotechnology. This volume is a survey of the genetics of bacteria and their viruses, and it provides students with a comprehensive introduction to this rapidly changing subject. The book is written for upper level undergraduates and beginning graduate students, particularly those who have had an introductory genetics course.

The fifth edition has been extensively revised to reflect recent advances in the field. The book now has a reader-friendly look, with end-of-chapter questions, "Thinking Ahead" and "Applications" boxes to challenge students comprehension and insights. A complete glossary of commonly used terms has been revised and expanded.

This new edition offers a state-of-the-art and integrative vision of pharmacogenomics by exploring new concepts and practical methodologies focusing on disease treatments, from cancers to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders and more. The collection of these theoretical and experimental approaches facilitates problem-solving by tackling the complexity of personalized drug discovery and development. Written by leading experts in their fields for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, the book aims to provide across-the-board resources to support the translation of pharmacogenomics into better individualized health care. Authoritative and up-to-date, Pharmacogenomics in Drug Discovery and Development, Third Edition aims to aid researchers in approaching the challenges in pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine with the introduction of these novel ideas and cutting-edge methodologies.

Documents the confused early history of DNA, RNA and proteins - a transformative history of molecular biology like no other. Integrates the influences of biochemistry and genetics on the landscape of molecular biology. Chronicles the important discoveries, preconceptions and misconceptions that retarded or misdirected progress. Highlights major pioneers and contributors to molecular biology, with a focus on RNA and noncoding DNA. Summarizes the mounting evidence for the central roles of non-protein-coding RNA in cell and developmental biology. Provides a thought-provoking retrospective and forward-looking perspective for advanced students and professional researchers.

Over the past 20 years, technological advances in molecular biology have proven invaluable to the understanding of the pathogenesis of human cancer. The application of molecular technology to the study of cancer has not only led to advances in tumor diagnosis, but has also provided markers for the assessment of prognosis and disease progression. The aim of Molecular Ana- sis of Cancer is to provide a comprehensive collection of the most up-to-date techniques for the detection of molecular changes in human cancer. Leading researchers in the field have contributed chapters detailing practical pro- dures for a wide range of state-of-the-art techniques. Molecular Analysis of Cancer includes chapters describing techniques for the identification of chromosomal abnormalities and comprising: fluor- cent in situ hybridization (FISH), spectral karyotyping (SKY), comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), and microsatellite analysis. FISH has a pro- nent role in the molecular analysis of cancer and can be used for the detection of numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities. The recently described SKY, in which all human metaphase chromosomes are visualized in specific colors, allows for the definition of all chromosomal rearrangements and marker chromosomes in a tumor cell. Protocols for the detection of chromosomal re- rangements by PCR and RT-PCR are described, as well as the technique of DNA fingerprinting, a powerful tool for studying somatic genetic alterations in tumorigenesis.

With the completion of sequencing projects and the advancement of a- lytical tools for protein identification, proteomics-the study of the expressed part of the genome-has become a major region of the burgeoning field of functional genomics. High-resolution 2-D gels can reveal virtually all p- teins present in a cell or tissue at any given time, including posttranslationally modified proteins. Changes in the expression and structure of most cellular proteins caused by differentiation or external stimuli can be displayed and eventually identified using 2-D protein gels. 2-D Proteome Analysis Protocols covers all aspects of the use of 2-D protein electrophoresis for the analysis of biological problems. The contri- tors include many of the leaders in the fields of biochemistry and analytical chemistry who were instrumental in the development of high-resolution 2-D gels, immobilized pH gradients, computer analysis, and mass spectromet- based protein identification methodologies. This book is intended as a benchtop manual and guide both for novices to 2-D gels and for those aficionados who wish to try the newer techniques. Any group using protein biochemistry-especially in the fields of molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and cell biology-should find this book eminently useful. 2-D Proteome Analysis Protocols takes the researcher through the c- plete process of working with 2-D protein gels from making the protein - tract to finally identifying the proteins of interest. It includes protocols for generating 2-D protein extracts from most of the standard model organisms, including bacteria, yeast, nematode, Drosophila, plants, mouse, and human.

This detailed book compiles a series of laboratory protocols covering the most important aspects of R-loop biology. Beginning with a range of methods allowing for the detection of DNA-RNA hybrids, as well as their purification and visualization by electron microscopy, the volume continues with methods based on the use of RNase H-derived tools to detect DNA-RNA hybrids in vitro and in vivo. Several protocols permit studying non-canonical RNA nucleotides in the R-loop context, as well as a number of specific protocols devoted to the investigation of R-loop topology and their functional roles in the biology of mitochondria and telomeres. Finally, a large block of chapters is dedicated to different methods allowing genome-wide mapping of DNA-RNA hybrids in various organisms. 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, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, R-Loops: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal resource for those working on R-loop homeostasis but also to scientists studying such areas of molecular and cell biology as genome integrity, DNA replication and repair, chromatin remodeling, transcription, RNA processing, modification and export, as well as for researchers elucidating the molecular mechanisms of cancer and genetic diseases.

Provides examples, to laboratories and lab personnel, on how to report the results of forensic biology examinations given activity level propositions, along with example reports and standard operating procedures Presents worked case examples, based on real crimes, showing how the theory of activity level evaluation can be applied in practice Illustrates how the theory of activity level evaluation, explained specifically for forensic genetic cases, can likewise be applied to other forensic disciplines Explains concepts in simple terms, making it ideal for law or science students wishing to understand the fundamental of forensic evidence evaluation

Much research has focused on the basic cellular and molecular biological aspects of stem cells. Much of this research has been fueled by their potential for use in regenerative medicine applications, which has in turn spurred growing numbers of translational and clinical studies. However, more work is needed if the potential is to be realized for improvement of the lives and well-being of patients with numerous diseases and conditions.This book series 'Cell Biology and Translational Medicine (CBTMED)' as part of Springer Nature's longstanding and very successful Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology book series, has the goal to accelerate advances by timely information exchange. Emerging areas of regenerative medicine and translational aspects of stem cells are covered in each volume. Outstanding researchers are recruited to highlight developments and remaining challenges in both the basic research and clinical arenas. This current book is the 14th volume of a continuing series.

This book aims to deliver the most up-to-date protocols in using epiblast stem cells (EpiSC) to answer critical questions on mammalian development. Beginning with a section on the spectrum of mouse primed pluripotent stem cells, the volume continues with chapters on toolkits to characterize and study primed stem cells, as well as primed stem cells to engineer gastrulation models. Written for the highly successful Method in Molecular Biology series, 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 practical, Epiblast Stem Cells: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide to overcome the reproducibility problem by gathering detailed state-of-the-art protocols to perform comprehensive analyses, enabling the reader to opt for the appropriate cell type to model the epiblast.

Stem Cell Transcriptional Networks: Methods and Protocols collects techniques used to increase our understanding of the underlying transcriptional programs of stem cells that promote self-renewal and differentiation. The volume opens with a section on next-generation sequencing library preparation and data analysis. Continuing with a collection of protocols on visual analysis and interpretation of large-scale interaction networks, this detailed compilation features transcriptional networks in embryonic and adult stem cells, embryo culture and derivation of stem cells, as well as transcriptional programs that promote self-renewal, reprogramming, and transdifferentiation. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Stem Cell Transcriptional Networks: Methods and Protocols aims to provide a key resource for biologists seeking to interrogate these vital networks.

Much research has focused on the basic cellular and molecular biological aspects of stem cells. Much of this research has been fueled by their potential for use in regenerative medicine applications, which has in turn spurred growing numbers of translational and clinical studies. However, more work is needed if the potential is to be realized for improvement of the lives and well-being of patients with numerous diseases and conditions.This book series 'Cell Biology and Translational Medicine (CBTMED)' as part of Springer Nature's longstanding and very successful Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology book series, has the goal to accelerate advances by timely information exchange. Emerging areas of regenerative medicine and translational aspects of stem cells are covered in each volume. Outstanding researchers are recruited to highlight developments and remaining challenges in both the basic research and clinical arenas. This current book is the 15th volume of a continuing series.

This volume explores the fields of stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and cancer biology. The chapters in this book cover topics such as embryonic stem cells (ES) and induced pluripotent cells (iPS); ES/iPSC derived tissue stem cells; tissue resident stem cells; assays for primitive malignant cells; and CRISPR/Cas9 engineering and transgenic model development. 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. Cutting-edge and thorough, Stem Cell Assays: Methods and Protocols is a valuable laboratory manual that allows researchers and scientists to learn about new techniques and approaches in this developing field.

This book presents the latest knowledge and the most recent research results on glycobiology of innate immunology. Innate immunity is the crucial part of the immunological defense system that exerts their distinct functions through binding to certain functional glycoproteins. They play a role in various human diseases and also function against microbial invaders and self-associated molecular patterns. Co-regulated expression of glycan-binding is associated with many biological components such as cellular oncotransformation, phenotype change, neuronal or embryonic development, regulation of cell division, cell-cell interaction, cell attachment, adhesion, and motility, and intracellular signaling via protein-carbohydrate or carbohydrate-carbohydrate interactions. This book opens by providing the key background on glycans in innate immunity and its mechanisms behind the Dendritic cell interactions during infection and inflammation are examined in depth, and the concluding chapter is devoted to signaling tumor immunotherapy. Up-to-date information is then presented on all aspects of glycan structure-recognizing signaling. The book should assist in the further development of new strategies against emerging infectious agents and intractable diseases.