Abstract

This course manual instructs students in recombinant DNA techniques and other essential molecular biology techniques in the context of projects. The project approach inspires and captivates students; it involves them in the scientific experience, providing continuity to laboratory bench time and an understanding of the principles underlying the techniques presented.

Molecular Biology is a must for any department, operating under budgetary constraints that offers or plans to offer a course in molecular cloning.

• Includes a glossary of over 200 terms important for understanding molecular biology
• Uses an inexpensive source of eukaryotic cells - great for schools on a budget
• Includes Methods Locator that provides instant access to the latest methods
• Contain clearly written, easy-to-follow, student-tested instructions:
• Sterile techniques
• Phage titration
• Gel electrophoresis of DNA
• Restriction enzyme digestion
• Plasmid isolation
• Transformation of E. Coli
• Recombinant DNA cloning
• Nick translation labeling
• Nonradioactive primer labelling
• Nonradioactive DNA detection
• Southern blotting
• Colony hybridization
• Purification of plant DNA
• RNA purification
• Northern blotting
• Purification of poly A+ RNA
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

"This book is excellent in its technical and practical details. The background information, clear instructions and copious supporting information about recipes, sources, and further readings should make it possible for any student to successfully complete the experiments and gain experience with these techniques." --Sara Abraham in CANADIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

"Once again an extensive introduction to the techniques in this chapter make this book worth having just because of the background material provided." --Cynthia M. Galloway in PLANT SCIENCE BULLETIN

"...very valuable. The book, which is a guideline for instructors, may also serve as a rapid source of protocols for scientists not used to working in molecular biology. Its reasonable price should contribute to the foreseeable success of this book." --JOURNAL OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY