Book excerpt: Covering the whole range of molecular biology techniques - genetic engineering as well as cytogenetics of plants -, each chapter begins with an introduction to the basic approach. followed by detailed methods with easy-to-follow protocols and comprehensive troubleshooting. The first part introduces basic molecular methodology such as DNA extraction, blotting, production of libraries and RNA cloning, while the second part describes analytical approaches, in particular RAPD and RFLP. The manual concludes with a variety of gene transfer techniques and both molecular and cytological analysis. As such, this will be of great use to both the first-timer and the experienced scientist.