Epidermal Growth Factor: Methods and Protocols

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and related molecules regulate a wide array of biological events, ranging from normal growth and development to such pathological states as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. In Epidermal Growth Factor: Methods and Protocols, expert researchers active in the field present their best methods to dissect the mechanisms that control growth factors and their regulators in both normal and pathological states. These readily reproducible techniques range from the study of purified EGF receptor to complex signaling and processing networks in intact cells, including a chapter on the clinical and pharmacological considerations of their use in cancer therapy. The protocols follow the successful Methods in Molecular Biology™ series format, each offering step-by-step laboratory instructions, an introduction outlining the principles behind the technique, lists of the necessary equipment and reagents, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and highly practical, Epidermal Growth Factor: Methods and Protocols offers investigators an array of powerful and proven tools to unravel the workings of epidermal growth factor, as well as develop new strategies for the successful use of this important developmental and therapeutic target.