Includes bibliographical references and index.

In situ hybridization methods to study microbial populations and their interactions with human host cells -- Fluorescent protein probes in fungi -- Live-cell imaging of filamentous fungi using vital fluorescent dyes and confocal microscopy -- One-photon versus two-photon laser scanning microscopy and digital image analysis of microbial biofilms -- Applications cryo-and transmission electron microscopy in the study of microbial macromolecular structure and bacterial-host cell iteractions -- Microbial surfaces investigated using atomic force microscopy -- Positron emission tomography imaging of clinical infectious diseases -- Biosensor characterization of structure-function relationships in viral proteins -- RT in situ PCR: protocols and applications -- Real-time fluorescent PCR techniques to study microbial-host interactions -- Design and use of functional gene microarrays (FGAs) for the characterization of microbial communities.

Recent advances in molecular technology have provided new microbial imaging tools, not only complementing more classical methods, but in many cases significantly enhancing the sensitivity and efficiency in which studies may be conducted. These technologies are applicable to a wide range of problems in contemporary microbiology, including strain selection, understanding microbial structure, function and pathophysiology, as well as in the development of anti-microbial agents and vaccines. This volume emphasizes detailed methodology, provides a theoretical background and lists potential applicat.

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