Book excerpt: Restriction Endonucleases and Methylases, the fifth volume in the series, Gene Amplification and Analysis, covers important new research advances in molecular biology brought about by the use of restriction endonucleases and methylases. Contributions by authorities in the field focus on research studies that examine both the structure and catalytic properties of this important group of DNA enzymes. This volume also serves as a useful reference for reaction conditions and the general application of restriction endonucleases as reagents for molecular biology. Restriction Endonucleases and Methylases is invaluable reading for those who wish to better understand the restriction enzymes utilized in various areas of research in molecular biology.