Cell-free protein expression promises to narrow the technological gap between DNA and protein technologies and provide a platform for broad application of synthetic biology principles in the Life Sciences. It is a rapid and high throughput methodology for the conversion of DNA encoded genetic information into protein-mediated biochemical activities. Cell-Free Protein Synthesis: Methods and Protocols brings together the key opinion leaders of cell-free technology development and provides case studies and detailed protocols for the application of cell-free methodology. Chapters cover the main directions in the development of cell-free technologies including several recently developed cell-free systems, as well as a number of applications of cell-free systems ranging from discovery of biofuel enzymes to in vitro assembly of viruses. Written in the 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 protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and easily accessible, Cell-Free Protein Synthesis: Methods and Protocols seeks to serve a wide variety of scientists with its well-honed methodologies.