Protein Analysis and Purification : Benchtop Techniques

This comprehensive, practical and user-friendly manual engages the novice and the veteran alike in the cutting edge of protein research. It is designed to be a practical progression of experimental protocols that an inexperienced investigator may follow when embarking on a biochemical or biotechnology project. The manual will also appeal to experienced researchers and graduate students as a benchtop handbook which, without sacrificing scientific concepts, maintains the spirit of experimentation. The book guides the reader through a plethora of proven and productive methods for both soluble proteins and membrane or particulate-associated proteins, including protein quantitation, chromatography, electrophoresis, immunochemical methods, protein labeling, peptide mapping, protein localization, protein modification analysis, recombinant protein expression and more. Special attention has been given to an optimal choice from a rich variety of methods available in a modern lab for a particular application. Features: * More than 180 protocols are included with materials lists, step-by-step instructions and valuable comments on practical issues such as time considerations and safety issues. The protocols may be performed in the order laid out, or may be used independently. The first option is best for a novice or for student instruction, the second one is fit for experienced researchers. * Each chapter contains a wealth of practical information, including troubleshooting tips, safety icons and references. The comprehensive appendices present conveniently in one place frequently used tables, conversion charts, equipment guidelines and vendor addresses. This manual is a must for all laboratory libraries and an invaluable tool at the bench, filling a basic and vital need of workers in all fields of life sciences research. Selected chapters and protocols will serve as lab courses in contemporary protein research techniques. This book is designed to be a practical progression of experimental techniques an investigator may follow when embarking on a biochemical project. The protocols may be performed in the order laid out or may be used inde­ pendently. The aim of the book is to assist a wide range of researchers. from the novice to the frustrated veteran, in the choice and design of experiments that are to be performed to provide answers to specific questions. The manual describes standard techniques that have been shown to work, as well as some newer ones that are beginning to prove important. By following the promi­ nently numbered steps. you can work your way through any protocol. whether it's a new technique or a task you've done before for which you need a quick review or updated methodology. This manual will assist the experimentalist in designing properly controlled experiments. There will be no advice for dealing with specific pieces of equip­ ment other than encouragement to read the manual, if you can find it. Through­ out all manipulations try to be objective. Be on the lookout for unexpected findings. You will learn the most from unexpected results. and they are often the beginning of the next project. It is never possible to record too much in your lab notebook. Do not get discouraged. Remember, things will not always run smoothly. This comprehensive, practical and user-friendly manual is designed to be a practical progression of experimental protocols that an inexperienced investigator may follow when embarking on a biochemical or biotechnology project. It will also appeal to experienced researchers and graduate students as a benchtop handbook which, without sacrificing scientific concepts, maintains the spirit of experimentation. Presents a practical progression of experimental protocols that an investigator may follow when embarking on a biochemical project. The book is designed to assist researchers in the choice and design of experiments which, when performed, provide answers to specific questions. This book is, as described by the author, a "practical progression of experimental techniques an investigator may follow when embarking on a biochemical project."