This volume looks at all aspects of manipulation of Leptospira spp. from strain isolation to the latest techniques used to study the pathogenesis of leptospirosis. The chapters in this book cover topics such as the procedure to cultivate and isolate leptospires from both clinical and environmental samples; using methods like whole genome sequencing and Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry to identify bacterial species; tools for gene inactivation and in vitro and in vivo assays to study the pathogenesis of leptospirosis; and the use of hamsters to evaluate leptospiral virulence and vaccine candidates. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls
