الصفحة 1
الصفحة 1
Neuroacanthocytosis Syndromes II
Awareness of neuroacanthocytosis disorders has increased significantly in recent years. There have been a number of important developments in the field since the publication of the first volume, Neuroacanthocytosis Syndromes. This book contains the latest research in this area. Recent advances have identified the range of mutations in the causative genes, shedding light on potential phenotypegenotype correlations. Studies of the proteins affected in these disorders have resulted in increased understanding of their functions and distribution. In vitro studies have identified potential protein interactions, which have important implications for pathophysiology. Work on erythrocyte membranes suggests mechanisms for the generation of acanthocytes. Animal models are being generated which will greatly facilitate understanding the role of gene mutations in humans, and provide the foundation for possible therapeutic interventions. In addition, advances in other neurodegenerative disorders, such as Huntington’s and Parkinson’s diseases, have implications for neuroacanthocytosis.
Modern treatments for chronic blood diseases
Blood is a body fluid in humans and other animals that delivers necessary substances such as nutrients and oxygen to the cells and transports metabolic waste products away from those same cells. In vertebrates, it is composed of blood cells suspended in blood plasma. Plasma, which constitutes 55% of blood fluid, is mostly water (92% by volume), and contains proteins, glucose, mineral ions, hormones, carbon dioxide (plasma being the main medium for excretory product transportation), and blood cells themselves. Albumin is the main protein in plasma, and it functions to regulate the colloida osmotic pressure of blood. The blood cells are mainly red blood cells (also called RBCs or erythrocytes), white blood cells (also called WBCs or leukocytes) and platelets (also called thrombocytes). Thalassemias are inherited blood disorders characterized by decreased hemoglobin production Symptoms depend on the type and can vary from none to severe. Often there is mild to severe anemia (low red blood cells or hemoglobin). Anemia can result in feeling tired and pale skin. There may also be bone problems, an enlarged spleen, yellowish skin, and dark urine. Slow growth may occur in children.
Hypoxia and Exercise
The 14th volume in the series will focus on cutting edge research at the interface of hypoxia and exercise. The work will cover the range from molecular mechanisms of muscle fatigue and muscle wasting to whole body exercise on the world’s highest mountains. State of the art papers on training at high altitude for low altitude athletic performance will also be featured.
Cell volume and signaling
In front of you is the finished product of your work, the text of your contributions to the 2003 Dayton International Symposium on Cell Volume and Signal Transduction. As we all recall, this symposium brought together the Doyens of Cellular and Molecular Physiology as well as aspiring young investigators and students in this field.
