The molecular biology of insect disease vectors

C. Louis

The overall aim of this text is to provide a source book of detailed protocols covering the important techniques used in molecular entomology for those wishing to enter this field. The text is made up of 46 chapters, each covering a specific methodology and authored by an invited expert. The chapters are written such that a competent scientist who is unfamiliar with the method can carry out the technique successfully, either at the first attempt, or with a little practice, by simply following the detailed procedures. Each chapter includes: an introductory narrative; a detailed list of materials and equipment required; a detailed, step-by-step protocol; a section of explanatory notes; a bibliography. The chapters are organised under section headings to provide a logical structure to the text, progressing from insect maintenance and infection with parasites, through basic molecular techniques, to genome mapping and transgenics. This methods manual will provide a valuable resource to assist in the development of this rapidly expanding field of research and scholarship.