The combination of nanoscience and biotechnology promises to yield revolutionary biological insights, ranging from receptor function to drug discovery to personal medicine. In NanoBiotechnology Protocols, hands-on experts in nanomaterial synthesis and application describe in detail the key experimental techniques currently employed in novel materials synthesis, dynamic cellular imaging, and biological assays. The authors emphasize diverse strategies to synthesize and functionalize the use of nanoparticles for biological applications. Additional chapters focus on the use of biological components (peptides, antibodies, and DNA) to synthesize and organize nanoparticles to be used as a building block in larger assemblies. These new materials make it possible to image cellular processes for longer durations, leading to high throughput cellular-based screens for drug discovery, drug delivery, and diagnostic applications. Highlights include overview chapters on quantum dots and DNA nanotechnology, and cutting-edge techniques in the emerging nanobiotechnology arena. A value-added compact disk containing color figures is included. The protocols follow the successful Methods in Molecular Biology™ series format, each offering step-by-step laboratory instructions, an introduction outlining the principle behind the technique, lists of the necessary equipment and reagents, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.
Illuminating and cross-disciplinary, NanoBiotechnology Protocols enables novice and experienced researchers alike to quickly come up to speed with both nanomaterials preparation and the use of nanomaterials in biological and medicinal applications.
