This book offers an introduction to the newest, fastest-growing field in laboratory science. Explaining and clarifying the molecular techniques used in diagnostic testing, this text provides both entry-level and advanced information. It covers the principles of molecular biology along with genomes and nucleic acid alterations, techniques and instrumentation, and applications of molecular diagnostics. Written by leading experts, this book includes illustrations, tables, and a colorful design to make information easy to find and easy to use. CONTENTS: I. Principles
1. Principles of Molecular Biology
2. Genomes and Nucleic Acid Alterations
II. Techniques and Instrumentation
3. Specimen Collection and Processing
4. Nucleic Acid Isolation
5. Nucleic Acid Techniques
6. Miniaturization: DNA Chips and Devices
7. Design and Operation of a Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory
8. Introduction to Evidence-Based Molecular Diagnostics
III. Applications
9. Inherited Diseases
10. Identity Assessment
11. Molecular Methods in Diagnosis and Monitoring of Infectious Diseases
12. Pharmacogenetics
13. Molecular Genetics in Diagnosis of Human Cancers
IV. Appendix
14. Reference Information
Answers to Review Questions
Glossary