This volume provides a comprehensive collection of  classical and cutting edge protocols and techniques to examine the normal development and physiological functions of the gastrointestinal system and to model the most common digestive diseases. The chapters focus on diverse research topics
including ex vivo systems to study gastrointestinal development and functions,
in vivo imaging of the gastrointestinal tract, isolation and characterization
of intestinal immune cells, and animal models of gastrointestinal inflammation
and cancer. The Gastrointestinal Physiology and Diseases: Methods and
Protocols book targets wide audience of physiologists,
cell and developmental biologists, immunologists, and physician-scientists
working in the field of gastroenterology and beyond. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include
introductions to theirrespective topics, lists of the necessary materials and
reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on
troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.

Highly practical and clearly written, Gastrointestinal Physiology and
Diseases: Methods and Protocols will serve both seasoned researchers as well as
newcomers to the field and will provide
a unique resource and expert guidance to modern laboratory techniques developed
for examining normal functions and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.