Technologies for Detection of DNA Damage and Mutations - Hardcover

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0306452375 ISBN 13: 9780306452376

Publisher: Springer, 1996

Synopsis

Man-made carcinogens, natural genotoxic agents in the environment, as well as ionizing and ultraviolet radiation can damage DNA and are a constant threat to genome integrity. Throughout the evolution oflife, complex DNA repair systems have developed in all living organisms to cope with this damage. Unrepaired DNA lesions can promote genetic alterations (mutations) that may be linked to an altered phenotype, and, if growth-controlling genes are involved, these mutations can lead to cell transformation and the development of malignant tumors. Proto­ oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes may be critical targets for DNA damaging agents. In a number of animal model systems, correlations between exposure to a carcinogen, tumor develop­ ment, and genetic changes in tumor DNA have been established. To understand mutagenesis processes in more detail at the molecular level, we need to know the type and frequency of DNA adducts within cells, their distribution along genes and specific DNA sequences, as well as the rates at which they are repaired. We also need to know what types of mutations are produced and which gene positions are most prone to mutagenesis. This book provides a collection of techniques that are useful in mutagenesis research. The book is divided into three parts. In Part I, methods for DNA damage and repair analysis are provided.

About this title

Synopsis

"Useful and timely." - "Mutagenesis". "Of considerable value." - "Journal of Medical Genetics". "Quite readable...a comprehensive overview...perfectly covers the needs of those researchers who have to decide on the best strategy to identify damage or mutations at the molecular level." - "Trends in Cell Biology". "The formats of the presentations are uniform and ample and up-to-date references are provided at the end of each chapter...will be welcomed by postgraduate researchers of all ages and should retain its usefulness for a long time." - "Endeavour", 21(4), 1997.This important resource thoroughly reviews a wide range of techniques used in mutagenesis research - ranging from established techniques to recently developed methodologies - based on the polymerase chain reaction. DNA damage analysis, DNA repair assays, and mutation detection are a few of the techniques featured. Chapters present detailed experimental protocols benefiting researchers and students in the fields of toxicology, biotechniques, molecular biology, photobiology, medical genetics, and oncology.

Edition details

• Publisher: Springer
• Publication date: 1996
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0306452375
• ISBN 13: 9780306452376
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 467
• Editor: Pfeifer G.P.