Abstract
This book is a collection of 21 chapters that are authoritative, stand-alone articles on state-of-the-art, advanced, and standard techniques for microscopic imaging. Methods with protocols covered include multiple techniques utilizing fluorescence microscopy, electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, laser scanning cytometry, confocal scanning laser microscopy, quantitative computer-assisted image analysis, laser-capture microdissection, microarray image scanning, near-field scanning optical microscopy, and reflection contrast microscopy. Many of the protocols are very specialized such as chapters on fluorescent probes for detection of endogenous mRNA in living cells, second harmonic imaging of collagen, imaging of secretory vesicle swelling by atomic force microscopy, or quantitative analysis of atherosclerotic lesion composition in mice. There are some more general chapters on subjects such as evaluation of confocal microscopy system performance, laser capture microdissection, and laser scanning cytometry principles and applications, to name a few. The material is well done from leaders in the field. Illustrations are highly variable from chapter to chapter but typically adequate. As with any methods book, if one needs insight into one of these specialized methods, this book is an excellent source. This is not a general reference book that overviews imaging techniques. The index is adequate. The listing of chapters with authors and book index are available on line from Humana Press at: http://www.humanapress.com.