A. Cockayne - Böcker

The accurate identification and typing of microbes is essential for workers active in all fields of microbiology. Many examples of modern molecular methods have up to now been concealed in the scientific and medical literature but this introductory text considers the possible applications of such methods and compares their advantages and disadvantages. This is not a "recipe" book but is intended as a first point of reference for workers seeking an introduction to these techniques. Following the general introductory chapter, each section of the book comprises an introduction to the principles of a particular method, an overview of the methodology involved, examples of applications involving each particular method, and full references to detailed methodology and other possible applications. Methods dealt with include plasmid and chromosomal fingerprinting techniques, RFLP analysis, ribotyping, polypeptide and LPS analysis, immunoblotting, multilocus enzyme analysis and the new technique of PCR typing. This book should be of interest to clinicians, research workers and postgraduates in the field of medical microbiology.