Book excerpt: This text explores the most significant aspects of sophisticated and recent cell biological techniques that are needed to keep up with research in morphology. Researchers in morphology will find many step-by-step protocols to conduct their work including state-of -- the -- art laser capture microdissection methods, real time PCR and advanced FISH techniques. The chapters include detailed protocols for setting up and performing these techniques. This book covers all of the major areas relevant to molecular morphology today. Potential pitfalls and anticipated problems are also discussed. Morphology Methods will prove essential to researchers interested in molecular morphology for the purpose of experiments, and for teaching graduate, or professional students wishing to keep up with the literature.