Adrenergic receptors are important modulators in the sympathetic c- trol of various metabolic
processes in the central and peripheral nervous s- tems. These receptors are localized at
multiple sites throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and serve as important regulators of
CNS-mediated behavior and neural functions including mood memory neuroendocrine c- trol and
stimulation of autonomic function. Adrenergic Receptor Protocols consists of 35 chapters
dealing with va- ous aspects of adrenergic receptor analyses including the use of genetic RNA
protein expression transactivator second messenger immunocytochemical electrophysiological
transgenic and in situ hybridization approaches. This volume details the use of various
methods to examine the adrenergic receptor system using aspects of the genetic flow of
information as a guide (DNA? RNA ? transactivator ? protein expression ? second messenger
analyses ? cellular analyses ? transgenic whole animal approaches). Adrenergic Receptor
Protocols displays step-by-step methods for s- cessful replication of experimental procedures
and would be useful for both experienced investigators and newcomers in the field including
those beg- ning graduate study or undergoing postdoctoral training. The Notes section contained
in each chapter provides valuable troubleshooting guides to help develop working protocols for
your laboratory. With Adrenergic Receptor Protocols it has been my intent to develop a
comprehensive collection of modern molecular methods for analyzing adrenergic receptors. I
would like to thank the many chapter authors for their contributions.
