This second edition details new and updated methods on soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors( SNAREs) and their function are examined in the laboratory. Chapters guide readers through an overview of the basic properties of SNAREs, distribution and interaction with regulators of membrane fusion, activation of SNAREs in the priming stage by NSF/Sec18 and a-SNAP/Sec17, examining the structures and interactions of SNAREs, measuring the interactions of SNAREs, interactions of SNAREs, and post-translational modifications of SNAREs and how they affect function. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols.  Authoritative and cutting-edge, SNAREs: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition aims to provide detailed methods so that novice as well as experienced researchers can explore the mechanisms of SNARE-mediated membrane fusion.