ICRF Handbook of Genome Analysis

Book excerpt: The combined power of genetic analysis and recombinant DNA technology to analyse entire genomes has moved biomedical research into a new and revolutionary phase. The complete sequencing and mapping of the human genome, as well as the genomes of other model organisms, will be the basis for our future understanding of human disease, and will allow us to answer fundamental questions about development and evolution. T The new ICRF Handbook of Genome Analysis is the essential guide to the enormous range of techniques available to the researcher for both the genetic and physical mapping of the genome, as well as the sequencing and analysis of DNA. It is both a protocol manual and a comprehensive information resource. Written by international experts, each chapter presents a state-of-the-art review of a methodology. Methods are fully described and evaluated; their advantages and disadvantages discussed; and their suitability for different investigations considered. Step-by-step protocols, including computer analyses, are given for 123 essential experimental procedures. 'Troubleshooting' sections discuss possible reasons for failure and offer remedies. The primary focus is on human genetics and the benefits of an understanding of the genome for the diagnosis and treatment of human disease. The book also considers the current state of progress in the analysis of genomes of many model organisms, including plants. A major part of the work provides detail on Internet resources as well as basic data on human and other genomes, including mapped disease genes and mouse knockouts. Covers not only the human genome in relation to cancers and other human diseases, but also the genomes of all important model organisms Contains 123 easy-to-follow protocols for essential experimental procedures Reviews a vast range of other information resources, including journals and the Internet * provides an invaluable listing of suppliers of laboratory materials Has been written by international experts from their own practical experience Is mandated by the Imperial Cancer Research Fund - a leader in research in this field Has a sturdy spiral binding within a hardback case for ease of use in the lab