Overview

This book describes state-of-the-art approaches for identification and functional characterization of plant peptide hormones and growth factors. Chapters guide readers through protocols for computational identification of novel signaling peptides and phytocytokines, analysis of post-translational maturation events, isolation of mature peptides from plant tissues, peptide bioassays, in vivo and in vitro analysis of peptide activity, peptide receptor identification and interaction analysis, and quantitative assessment of peptide ligand binding to cognate receptors. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and key tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Plant Peptide Hormones and Growth Factors aims to be a useful and practical guide to new researchers and experts looking to expand their technical know-how.