Humana Bone Research Protocols: 80 (Methods in Molecular Medicine)

A collection of the latest laboratory techniques for the study of bone and bone tissue. Described in step-by-step detail, these readily reproducible methods cover such topics as the isolation and culture of bone cells, the preparation of bone tissue for histological and ultrastructural analysis, methods for the measurement of bone strength and for mechanical studies, and how to use digital imaging techniques in the analysis of bone. Review "Bone Research Protocols is a most welcome compilation of methods. In it, many of the most productive laboratories in some of the most challenging areas of cell biology reveal detailed protocols that have been used to solve key problems. Short of spending a sabbatical in one of the eminent laboratories that contributed, this volume provides the best possible introduction to these methods." - TRENDS in Endocrinology and Metabolism From the Back Cover The past decade has witnessed the discovery of many genes with profound effects on bone. In Bone Research Protocols, recognized authorities with extensive hands-on experience present a wide-ranging catalog of laboratory techniques that will help researchers to investigate the mechanisms by which these genes affect bone mass and strength. Described in step-by-step detail, these readily reproducible methods cover such topics as the isolation and culture of bone cells, the preparation of bone tissue for histological and ultrastructural analysis, methods for the measurement of bone strength and for mechanical studies, and how to use digital imaging techniques in the analysis of bone. Though in vitro methods receive central attention, there are also protocols for in vivo analyses of bone formation and resorption. State-of-the-art and highly practical, Bone Research Protocols offers both beginning and advanced laboratory researchers a major compendium of well-established techniques for studying bone cell function and metabolism.