Mycobacteria Protocols

Charles E. Edmiston

This book was conceived as a laboratory resource describing in concise detail current molecular techniques used in basic or applied studies involving the mycobacteria. The editors have collected in a single volume numerous molecular protocols, which have been contributed by an outstanding group of international investigators. The spectrum of protocols included encompass laboratory techniques for studying the molecular biology of the mycobacteria to procedures appropriate for diagnostic or epidemiologic studies. This text should be viewed as a valuable resource for any mycobacterial investigator engaged in basic science or clinical studies. It would also be extremely helpful to young investigators or students studying the molecular genetics or microbial pathogenesis of the medically important mycobacteria. The text has been organized into 31 separate chapters. The first third of the book presents several chapters on basic techniques for studying the mycobacteria such as cultivation and preparation of nucleic acid, extraction of RNA, preparation of proteins, and cell-wall fractions. There are several chapters on phage application, transposon mutagenesis, gene replacement, and other techniques for studying gene regulation and expression. The last seven chapters address the use of molecular techniques for laboratory diagnosis and detection of drug resistance. The protocols in each chapter are well documented with concise material and methods sections. The editors have included a helpful "notes" section at the end of each chapter written by the contributors describing their own experiences when using these techniques, including valuable suggestions for overcoming common laboratorypitfalls. This is an excellent resource for either the established or novice investigator. The editors have solicited contributions from over 50 experts, many of whom are recognized as international leaders in the molecular biology and pathogenesis of the mycobacteria. The breadth of techniques covered and the thorough documentation included makes this text an ideal acquisition for either a personal or institutional holding.

Booknews

Presents the latest molecular biology techniques for studying mycobacteria, with step-by-step instructions ensuring reproducibility. Methods range from basic culture techniques, fractionation, and nucleic acid isolation to more advanced protocols for the introduction of cloned DNA into mycobacteria, the use of reporter genes, and the expression of foreign genes. Other techniques covered include mutagenesis, genome analysis, speciation, and RFLP analysis. Includes an introduction to using the mycobacterial database on the Web. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

From The Critics

Reviewer: Rebecca T. Horvat, PhD, D(ABMM)(University of Kansas Medical Center)
Description: Noting that the mycobacteria are "difficult organisms to work with," the editors provide this book with details on laboratory protocols that will be valuable to scientists working in this area. This first edition was published in 1998, and much has changed in the tools available to researchers. Thus, this book is needed to promote and enhance research in this area.
Purpose: This book will be a useful reference for scientists working with mycobacteria. These new techniques and ideas are valuable to laboratory researchers since many of these methods may take weeks or months to complete and involve expensive technologies. The book will be invaluable to these scientists.
Audience: Scientists with expertise in the study of mycobacteria are the intended audience, but the book also would be helpful for graduate students or postdoctoral fellows working at the bench. The authors include both senior scientists and bench scientists.
Features: The techniques include advice on the isolation of DNA and RNA from the thick-walled mycobacteria. The book includes methods for the isolation and study of the cell wall lipids and well as the investigation of global gene expression using microarrays and the introduction of plasmids using electroporation. Very detailed descriptions include a diagram of a continuous cell culture system for mycobacteria. This system allows for the investigation of how this bacterium responds to changes in environment. An additional system shows how to study mycobacteria inside the amoeba.
Assessment: This will be a very valuable resource for scientists working in the field of mycobacteria. It updates the previous edition with the techniques that have been developed in the last 10 years.

3 Stars from Doody