This fully updated edition provides a series of methods for how best to assess functions of histone deacetylases and acetyltransferases. The disease-relevance of dysregulated protein deacetylation by overexpressed or aberrantly activated histone deacetylases has spurred an intense search for novel and improved inhibitors of these enzymes, as reflected in this collection. Expert contributors explore the generation and evaluation of novel histone deacetylase inhibitors and new and improved techniques to assess acetylation-dependent molecular mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step and readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.