In the 10 years since the publication of the first edition of Cytoskeleton Methods and
Protocols, advances in fluorescent labeling, optics, and sample preparation have significantly
improved the imaging capability of microscopy. Techniques for live-cell imaging,
advances in software for the analysis of cell and organelle motility, and proteomics for
assessing potential interaction of cytoskeleton components contribute to the arsenal of
improved tools for cytoskeleton research. We continue to refine our understanding of the
cytoskeleton as a dynamic synergy of components.
The second edition of Cytoskeleton Methods and Protocols reflects many of the recent
technological advances in experimental tools for cytoskeleton research with emphasis on
animal, plant, protist, and fungal model systems. New chapters describe methods for livecell
imaging, fluorescence microscopy, electron microscopy, analysis of cell and organelle
motility, isolation of cytoskeleton components, and proteomics. Each chapter contains
up-to-date protocols organized in a step-by-step format that is useful for established and
novice investigators. A notes section provides a troubleshooting guide and often contains
unpublished technical information.
I thank John Walker for carefully reviewing initial drafts of manuscripts. More than
50 internationally renowned experts in their fields contributed to Cytoskeleton Methods
and Protocols, and I thank all of them.