In Situ Hybridization

The detection of specific nucleic acid sequences by in situ hybridization has many important applications in modern biology. In situ detection of viral DNA sequences is enabling the diagnosis of human diseases, the detection of specific sequences on chromosomes is crucial for genome analysis, and in fields such as developmental biology and neurobiology, the investigation of gene expression by in situ hybridization to mRNA has become a key technique. "In Situ Hybridization - A Practical Approach" is a comprehensive practical guide to the uses of this major technique. Step-by-step protocols are presented for the preparation of cloned DNA, RNA and oligonucleotide probes, with both radioactive and non-radioactive labels, and their hybridization to mRNA, viral DNA, and chromosomal DNA. Methods are provided for the analysis of cells, tissue sections, and whole embryos. In addition, techniques are presented for carrying out in situ hybridization in combination with the immunochemical detection of protein, and for using it at the electron microscopic level. This book is aimed at any researcher wishing to exploit the many widesprad applications of this important technique.