Experimental Methodologies

This chapter is meant to serve two functions. First, we present the methods used to produce the experimental results presented in the following chapters. These are designed to assist the reader in understanding the accompanying figures and to define the specific experimental conditions used to produce them. Among them are methods relating specifically to the use of Xenopus as well as those representing more mundane laboratory procedures such as gel electrophoresis and sucrose gradient centrifugation, together with protocols whose utilities are more restricted to those of us working on ChEs. We also present several appendices (see pp. 147–165) whose purpose is to provide detailed information and protocols relating to Xenopus husbandry and microinjections. Naturally, these appendices are based primarily on our own laboratory experience, but we have tried to incorporate the experiences of others working in the field, where our own experience is limited.