Sound and reproducible laboratory methods are the foundation of scientific discovery. Yet, all too often, nuances that are critical for an experiment’s success are not captured in the primary literature but exist only as part of a lab’s oral tradition. The aim of Current Protocols is to provide the clearest, most detailed, and reliable step-by-step instructions for all protocols relevant to a given scientific subject area. Written by experts in the field and extensively edited to our exacting standards, the protocols are formatted to include all of the information necessary to perform an experiment in the laboratory—introduction, materials lists with sourcing information, detailed step-by-step instructions with helpful annotations, recipes for reagents and solutions, illustrative figures and information-packed tables. Each article provides invaluable discussions of data analysis and interpretation, background information, applications of the methods, important assumptions, key parameters, time considerations, and tips to help avoid common pitfalls and troubleshoot experiments. Current Protocols also publishes overviews which provide theory, strategic planning, and practical advice on particular laboratory methodologies. Current Protocols content is thoughtfully curated for optimal usage and to maximize contextual knowledge. Monthly issues allow Current Protocols to constantly evolve to keep pace with the newest discoveries and developments.

First published in 1987, Current Protocols established the gold standard for protocol publications. With regularly updated and new protocols, this extensive collection covers the range of life sciences protocols needed for interdisciplinary research, including molecular and cell biology, bioinformatics, immunology, microbiology, genetics, neuroscience, protein science, pharmacology and toxicology, chemical biology, stem cell biology, plants, model organisms, nucleic acid chemistry, cytometry and more. Our essential laboratory techniques collection ensures that undergraduates and those with little laboratory experience can quickly master key methods.