Humana Adrenergic Receptor Protocols: 126 (Methods in Molecular Biology)

Adrenergic receptors are important modulators in the sympathetic c- trol of various metabolic processes in the central and peripheral nervous s- tems. These receptors are localized at multiple sites throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and serve as important regulators of CNS-mediated behavior and neural functions, including mood, memory, neuroendocrine c- trol, and stimulation of autonomic function. Adrenergic Receptor Protocols consists of 35 chapters dealing with va- ous aspects of adrenergic receptor analyses, including the use of genetic, RNA, protein expression, transactivator, second messenger, immunocytochemical, electrophysiological, transgenic, and in situ hybridization approaches. This volume details the use of various methods to examine the adrenergic receptor system, using aspects of the genetic flow of information as a guide (DNA? RNA ? transactivator ? protein expression ? second messenger analyses ? cellular analyses ? transgenic whole animal approaches). Adrenergic Receptor Protocols displays step-by-step methods for s- cessful replication of experimental procedures, and would be useful for both experienced investigators and newcomers in the field, including those beg- ning graduate study or undergoing postdoctoral training. The Notes section contained in each chapter provides valuable troubleshooting guides to help develop working protocols for your laboratory. With Adrenergic Receptor Protocols, it has been my intent to develop a comprehensive collection of modern molecular methods for analyzing adrenergic receptors. I would like to thank the many chapter authors for their contributions.