While early studies of the auditory/vestibular sciences provided insights into the anatomy and neurophysiology of these systems and produced a prosthetic cochlear implant, the rise of molecular biology now permits a clear examination of the genetic basis for various hearing and balance disorders. In Auditory and Vestibular Research: Methods and Protocols, specialists in the field describe current RNA, protein, and imaging protocols that have provided insights into genetic regulation as well as a greater understanding of the genes and pathogens involved in diseases of the ear. This overview utilizes both mammalian and non-mammalian animal models as well as techniques applicable to clinical studies in order to best provide an up-to-date perspective on basic research. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include brief introductions to their subjects, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and Notes sections, highlighting tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Auditory and Vestibular Research: Methods and Protocols is an ideal guide to the field and a useful tool for exploring genes and proteins in other systems as well, especially systems in which tissues are scarce and a comparative approach lends itself to discovering the underlying causes of human disorders