Modern neuroscience research is inherently multidisciplinary, with a wide variety of cutting edge new techniques to explore multiple levels of investigation. This Third Edition of Guide to Research Techniques in Neuroscience provides a comprehensive overview of classical and cutting edge methods including their utility, limitations, and how data are presented in the literature. This book can be used as an introduction to neuroscience techniques for anyone new to the field or as a reference for any neuroscientist while reading papers or attending talks. - Nearly 200 updated full-color illustrations to clearly convey the theory and practice of neuroscience methods - Expands on techniques from previous editions and covers many new techniques including in vivo calcium imaging, fiber photometry, RNA-Seq, brain spheroids, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, and more - Clear, straightforward explanations of each technique for anyone new to the field - A broad scope of methods, from noninvasive brain imaging in human subjects, to electrophysiology in animal models, to recombinant DNA technology in test tubes, to transfection of neurons in cell culture - Detailed recommendations on where to find protocols and other resources for specific techniques - "Walk-through" boxes that guide readers through experiments step-by-step

Neurochemistry / Neurophysiology / Neurotransmitter receptors / Neural receptors / Cerebral circulation / Brain / Radionuclide imaging / Physicochemical techniques / Receptor binding.

The brain is an enormously dynamic organ. Even when we sleep connections are made, signals sent and messages delivered. One of the key ways that the brain operates is via chemical stimuli which permits different parts of the brain to communicate between themselves and with the rest of the body. Determining what these chemicals, proteins and molecules are is an important way to not only discover how the brain works, but provide novel targets that may be useful in the treatment of disease, for instance in dealing with memory loss in dementia. This new book brings together international research in a broad range of topics, including molecular and cellular neurochemistry, neuropharmacology and genetic aspects of CNS function, neuroimmunology, metabolism, as well as the neurochemistry of neurological and psychiatric disorders of the CNS.

Significant advances in brain research have been made, but investigators who face the resulting explosion of data need new methods to integrate the pieces of the "brain puzzle." Based on the expertise of more than 100 neuroscientists and computer specialists, this new volume examines how computer technology can meet that need. Featuring outstanding color photography, the book presents an overview of the complexity of brain research, which covers the spectrum from human behavior to genetic mechanisms. Advances in vision, substance abuse, pain, and schizophrenia are highlighted. The committee explores the potential benefits of computer graphics, database systems, and communications networks in neuroscience and reviews the available technology. Recommendations center on a proposed Brain Mapping Initiative, with an agenda for implementation and a look at issues such as privacy and accessibility.

On picking up this first volume of a new series of books the reader may ask the two questions: (a) why research methods? and (b) why in neurochem istry? The answers to these questions are easy - they more than justify the volumes to come and show the strong need for their existence. It is customary to think of methods as a necessary but unexciting means to an end - to relegate advances in methodology to a minor role in the creative, original portion of advances in science. This is not the case; the pace-setting function of methodology is well illustrated in most areas of neurobiology. To formulate our questions to Nature (which is the essence of experimental design), methodology is needed; to get answers to our ques tions we have to devise yet new methods. The chapters of the present volume fully illustrate how the development of a new method can cut a new path how it can open new fields, just as the microscope founded histology. Heter ogeneity of structures presents a formidable challenge for methodology in the nervous system, yet methods for separating the structures are essential if we ever want to decipher the enigma of functional contribution of the ele ments to the whole. The problem is not only physical separation-clearly methods are essential to study complex structures in situ.

This book provides medical professionals and researchers with a comprehensive overview of fundamental concepts and recent advances in neurochemistry, and offers new perspectives for all those involved with research in related disciplines. As drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases is one of the largest subspecialties in the field of medicine, the book addresses topics that transcend the borders between disciplines, and presents a wealth of investigations into and discussions on critical questions relevant to the entire field of CNS drug research. It summarizes the available data on the fundamentals of neurotransmitters, treatment of and advanced care for neurodegenerative diseases; and outlines current and future research directions in this field. Combining both conventional and innovative approaches to the topic, the book offers a valuable guide for readers working in medicinal chemistry, the life sciences and allied fields.

Originally published in 2006, the second edition of The Design of Experiments in Neuroscience continues to be an excellent and eminently readable guideline for students beginning their scientific careers. Although all of the examples are specific to neuroscience, this slender volume offers valuable illumination on core practices, principles, and experimental approaches pertinent for all new researchers. Chapter topics cover recognizing pseudoscience, ethics, how to critically read journal articles, how to pick an experimental question, basic research design, controlling variables, and tips for becoming an independent investigator. Each of the eight chapters provides descriptive figures and extra information boxes, questions to check reader comprehension, additional thought questions, further reading suggestions, and Web resources. The six appendixes are as valuable as the main text, including information on working with data, writing research papers, a sample paper, questions and exercises for review, a glossary, and answers to chapter questions. Neuroscientist Harrington (Smith College) has created a wonderful resource that should be a must read for every neuroscientist in training, if not all novice scientists. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and graduate students. Upper-division Undergraduates; Graduate Students. Reviewed by C. L. Iwema.