Welcome to Nature Protocols
Nature Protocols is an online resource for protocols, including authoritative, peer-reviewed Nature Protocols and an interactive Protocols Network. The two create a dynamic forum for scientists to upload and comment on protocols.
Featured Protocols
CELL & TISSUE CULTURE
Generation of cortical neurons from mouse embryonic stem cellsFREEIn this protocol cortical neurons are generated from mouse embryonic stem cells in a chemically defined medium. The cortical differentiation of the cells is assessed by measuring the expression of proteins such as beta tubulin 3, Vglut1 and Vglut2.
CELL & TISSUE CULTURE
Stem Cell Series!Don't forget to view our stem cell series to see all the protocols we've published in the rapidly evolving field of stem cell technology.
Neuroscience
Attachment of stem cells to scaffold particles for intracerebral transplantationIn this protocol neural stem cells are attached to fibronectin-coated, plasma-polymerized particles. These scaffold particles are then implanted into the brains of rats carrying stroke lesions. Finally, the immunohistochemical technique for evaluating the implants is described.
Neuroscience
In vivo dendritic calcium imaging with a fiberoptic periscope systemA microendoscopic technique is described for measuring intracellular calcium activity directly from the apical dendrites of L5 pyramidal neurons from the pia down to depths of ~700 µm. The protocol can be used in anesthetized and freely moving rats.
Spectroscopy and structural analysis
Time-resolved RNA SHAPE chemistryThis protocol enables RNA structure formation to be investigated over time. 1 sec snapshots at single nucleotide resolution can be obtained for RNAs of arbitrary length and complexity.
Model organisms
Multi-stage chemical carcinogenesis in mouse skin: Fundamentals and applicationsThis protocol describes how to generate mouse models of skin cancer. A carcinogen is painted onto the back of mice followed by multiple applications of a tumor promoter. Multiple skin tumors form within 6-8 weeks.
Protocols Network
There are various ways you can contribute:
Upload your own lab protocols for further feedback and refinement
Discuss techniques in our discussion forum
Highlights from the network
- Dorsal Thalamus modulated by Thalamic Reticular Nucleus
- Rapid, high-throughput homogenization of embryonic or larval zebrafish (Danio rerio)
- High-throughput homogenization of Drosophila Melanogaster larvae using a bead mill-style homogenizer
- Phos-tag Western blotting for detecting stoichiometric protein phosphorylation in cells
- Identification of protease cleavage-sites in E. coli lysate by differential N-terminomic analysis
- Accurate measurement of cytosolic free zinc using eCALWY variants: a toolbox of genetically encoded FRET sensors
- DNA isolation protocol for Vigna radiata with free of phenolics
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Comment on published Nature Protocols, or protocols submitted by other researchers