This volume provides a comprehensive collection of classical and cutting edge prools and techniques to examine the normal development and physiological functions of the gastrointestinal system and to model the most common digestive diseases. The chapters focus on diverse research topics including ex vivo systems to study gastrointestinal development and functions, in vivo imaging of the gastrointestinal tract, isolation and characterization of intestinal immune cells, and animal models of gastrointestinal inflammation and cancer. The Gastrointestinal Physiology and Diseases: Methods and Prools book targets wide audience of physiologists, cell and developmental biologists, immunologists, and physician—scientists working in the field of gastroenterology and beyond. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to theirrespective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step—by—step, readily reproducible laboratory prools, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Highly practical and clearly written, Gastrointestinal Physiology and Diseases: Methods and Prools will serve both seasoned researchers as well as newcomers to the field and will provide a unique resource and expert guidance to modern laboratory techniques developed for examining normal functions and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.