Prion Protein Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology, 459)

Prion Protein Protocols brings together a collection of current protocols in the field of mammalian prion disease research. Since identification of the prion protein gene some 20 years ago, what were once thought to be rare, neurodegenerative diseases of humans and animals have become a major research area. The major interest in this field results from the epidemic of bovine spongiform encephalopathy and the subsequent human prion disease, variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, which still poses an unknown risk to human health. The “unknowns” in the field stem from the enigmatic nature of infectious prions, the infectious agent that can transmit these diseases between individuals. Although much information has been gained over the past two decades about the molecular nature of prion proteins, only very recently have several research groups begun to cast light on how to turn the normal prion protein into its aberrant, infectious form. Prion Protein Protocols brings together a collection of protocols from 13 diff- ent laboratories in five countries covering basic science and diagnostic areas of prion research. Together, the chapters provide an up-to-date collection of current methods in this unique area of neuroscience. The notes section at the end of each methods chapter provides useful insight into the experimental techniques, and they are no doubt a benefit to researchers wanting to use these technologies.

While much information has been gained over the last two decades regarding the molecular nature of prion proteins, only recently have several research groups begun to cast light on turning the normal prion protein into its aberrant, infectious form. In Prion Protein Protocols, an international team of experts provide an up-to-date collection of current methods in this unique area of neuroscience.  The chapters contained in this volume, both protocols and useful review chapters, feature topics such as the cell biology of prions, techniques and approaches to studying prion infection in cultured cells, how these systems can be used as a rapid bioassay, and prion protein misfolding. As a volume in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology™ series, the chapters include readily reproducible, step-by-step laboratory protocols, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, and the Notes section, which provides tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.

Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Prion Protein Protocols is an ideal collection for researchers investigating the growing field of mammalian prion disease.