Microcephaly: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology Book 2583)
Microcephaly: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology Book 2583) is a cutting-edge laboratory manual offering a comprehensive collection of experimental techniques for studying the genetic, cellular, and molecular mechanisms underlying microcephaly, a developmental brain disorder characterized by reduced brain size and impaired neurological function. This expertly curated volume is part of the prestigious Methods in Molecular Biology series — globally recognized for its clear, reproducible, and well-structured research protocols.
Edited by leading scientists in the field, this book combines classical molecular biology methods with state-of-the-art genomic, imaging, and stem cell technologies, enabling researchers to explore the pathways that control brain growth, neurogenesis, and cortical development.
Key Features:
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Comprehensive Experimental Protocols: Detailed methods covering gene editing, cell culture, organoid modeling, and animal studies, allowing researchers to investigate microcephaly across multiple biological systems.
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Focus on Human Disease Modeling: Includes iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cell) and brain organoid techniques to model microcephaly in vitro and study disease-specific mutations.
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Genetic and Molecular Insights: Offers step-by-step guidance for analyzing genetic variants, signaling pathways, and protein interactions linked to neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Imaging and Quantitative Analyses: Features modern imaging methods such as confocal microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and live-cell imaging to visualize brain tissue and cellular development.
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Viral and Environmental Factors: Discusses the role of Zika virus and other teratogenic agents in causing congenital microcephaly, along with practical diagnostic and prevention strategies.
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Expert Notes and Troubleshooting: Each chapter includes tips from experienced researchers, highlighting pitfalls and optimization strategies to ensure accurate and reproducible results.
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Multi-disciplinary Relevance: Integrates insights from molecular genetics, developmental biology, neuroscience, and medical research — making it invaluable for a wide range of scientific disciplines.
