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Molecular Mechanisms of Inflammation: Induction, Resolution and Escape by Helicobacter pylori (Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology #421)
by Steffen BackertThis book focuses on immune reactions and interactions of humans with Helicobacter pylori - a human pathogen connected to gastritis, peptic ulcers and even gastric cancer. With nearly half of the world’s population colonized, it has been characterized as one of the most successful pathogens for more than 100,000 years of co-evolution with its host. The respective chapters discuss not only how H. pylori infection is considered a paradigm for persistent bacterial infection and chronic inflammation, but also how the infection might be connected to host protection against gastro-esophageal diseases, asthma, and other allergic disease manifestations. Readers will gain essential insights into the roles of specific factors in the immune response and learn about the impact of genetic polymorphisms on the risk of gastric carcinogenesis. In addition, the book discusses the strategies used by this bacterium, which allow it to colonize specific sites in the stomach, interact with the microbiome, evade immune surveillance and undermine the resolution of inflammation during persistent infection. This volume presents a concise summary of recent advances in the areas of induction, resolution and escape of inflammation, innate and adaptive immunity, gastric disease development, as well as treatment and vaccination against H. pylori. Accordingly, it offers a valuable asset for scientists and clinicians alike.
Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release
by Zhao-Wen WangWithin the complex neuronal network of the nervous system, neuron-to-neuron communication occurs mainly through chemical synapses, where the presynaptic nerve terminal releases neurotransmitters which control the function of postsynaptic neurons by acting on postsynaptic receptors. Recent decades have brought ground-breaking new developments and a wealth of knowledge to this field. In 'Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release', leading experts provide concise, up-to-date information on all major molecular mechanisms involved, with complete background information and figures and diagrams to further elucidate key concepts or experiments. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, 'Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release' is sure to provide a learning tool for neuroscience students, a solid reference for neuroscientists, and a source of knowledge for all those who have a general interest in the ever-evolving field of neuroscience
Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release (Advances in Neurobiology #33)
by Zhao-Wen WangNeurons communicate with each other by releasing neurotransmitters. This book provides comprehensive coverage of the molecular mechanisms involved in neurotransmitter release. The topics covered in the book range from the architecture and cytomatrix proteins of presynaptic sites, to the modes of synaptic vesicle exocytosis (full-collapse and kiss-and-run), and from the key molecules mediating synaptic vesicle fusion (SNAREs) to those that closely interact with them (UNC-13/Munc13, UNC-18/Munc18, tomosyn, and complexins). The book also delves into the calcium sensors of synaptic vesicle fusion (synaptotagmins and Doc2s), the sources of calcium that trigger synaptic exocytosis (voltage-gated calcium channels and ryanodine receptors), and the regulation of neurotransmitter release by potassium channels, cell adhesion molecules, lipids, aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein (AIP), presenilins, and calstabins. To aid in understanding and illustrate key concepts, the book includes sufficient background information and a wealth of illustrations and diagrams. The new edition includes major updates to previous chapters, as well as several new chapters that reflect the recent advances in the field. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release, 2nd edition, is a valuable learning resource for neuroscience students and a solid reference for neuroscientists.
Molecular Mechanisms of Retina Pathology and Ways of its Correction
by Svetlana TrofimovaThis book discusses the pathology of the retina, and reviews current research on the use of cell replacement therapy and short peptides to restore functional activity in retinal neurons. As the book describes, pathologies of the retina, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa, present a long-standing challenge in the practice of clinical ophthalmology. Modern treatment for these conditions, which lead to irreversible blindness, includes laser exposure, surgical intervention, and drugs. These treatments aim to reduce the risk of new complications in the eye; pathogenetic therapy of degenerative diseases of the retina is practically absent in current ophthalmic practice. The first section of the book reviews the molecular mechanisms of age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa, and reports on methods of treatment. The second section presents the results of recent experimental studies of the effects of short peptides on pluripotent embryonic cells; on proliferative activity in retinal cells and pigment epithelium; on expression of markers of differentiation or retinal neurons and pigment epithelium; and on the course of hereditary retinal pigmentation in Campbell rats. The third section offers results of clinical studies on the effectiveness of short peptides in patients with macular degeneration, and in patients with retinitis pigmentosa. The author concludes that the regular use of peptides in the treatment of degenerative diseases of the retina can slow the progression of the pathological process and preserve the patient’s vision for some 10-15 years. In addition, in 80 percent of patients, it is possible to increase visual function by increasing visual acuity, improving the boundaries of the visual field and the fundus.
Molecular Mechanisms of Tumor Cell Resistance to Chemotherapy: Targeted Therapies to Reverse Resistance
by Benjamin BonavidaThis volume gives the latest developments in on the mechanisms of cancer cell resistance to apoptotic stimuli, which eventually result in cancer progression and metastasis. One of the main challenges in cancer research is to develop new therapies to combat resistant tumors. The development of new effective therapies will be dependent on delineating the biochemical, molecular, and genetic mechanisms that regulate tumor cell resistance to cytotoxic drug-induced apoptosis. These mechanisms should reveal gene products that directly regulate resistance in order to develop new drugs that target these resistance factors and such new drugs may either be selective or common to various cancers. If successful, new drugs may not be toxic and may be used effectively in combination with subtoxic conventional drugs to achieve synergy and to reverse tumor cell resistance. The research developments presented in this book can be translated to produce better clinical responses to resistant tumors.
Molecular Medicine: An Introduction
by Cy Aaron Stein Jens KurreckDiscover the future of medicine in this extensively updated edition of the pioneering textbook, reflecting the rapid progress in the field Molecular medicine is a rapidly growing field, and the molecular basis of diseases can be used to develop therapeutic approaches in numerous other medical subfields. Research into molecular medicine has been used as the basis for gene therapy, precision medicine, and more. Molecular Medicine provides a fundamental overview of this cutting-edge, interdisciplinary field, incorporating modules from basic immunology to virology to new approaches. Now fully updated to reflect the exponential progress in biomedical research, it promises to put students on the leading edge of a revolution in the life sciences. Readers of the second edition of Molecular Medicine will also find: Detailed discussion of cutting-edge topics including cancer stem cells, mRNA vaccines, organs-on-a-chip, and moreProfessional artwork throughoutChapter summaries, exercises, and study questions for each chapter Molecular Medicine is ideal for graduate students in life sciences and medicine, as well as the lecturers and libraries that support them.
Molecular Medicine: How Science Works
by Carsten Carlberg Ferdinand Molnár Eunike VelleuerThe fascinating area of molecular medicine provides a molecular and cellular description of health and disease. Starting with the understanding of gene regulation and epigenetics, i.e., the interplay of transcription factors and chromatin, this book will provide an fundamental basis of nearly all processes in physiology, both in health as well as in most common disorders, such as cancer, diabetes as well as in autoimmune diseases. Most non-communicable human diseases have a genetic (= inherited) as well as an epigenetic component. The later one is based on our lifestyle choices and environmental exposures. Many common diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, can be explained only to some 20% via a genetic predisposition. We cannot change the genes that we are born with but we can take care of the remaining 80% being primarily based on our epigenome. Therefore, there is a high level of individual responsibility for staying healthy. Thus, not only biologists and biochemists should be aware of this topic, but all students of biomedical disciplines will benefit from being introduced into the concepts of molecular medicine. This will provide them with a good basis for their specialized disciplines of modern life science research. The book is subdivided into 42 chapters that are linked to a series of lecture courses in “Molecular Medicine and Genetics”, “Molecular Immunology”, “Cancer Biology” and “Nutrigenomics” that is given by one of us (C. Carlberg) in different forms since 2002 at the University of Eastern Finland in Kuopio. This book represents an updated version and fusion of the books textbooks “Mechanisms of Gene Regulation: How Science Works” (ISBN 978-3-030-52321-3), “Human Epigenetics: How Science Works” (ISBN 978-3-030-22907-8). “Molecular Immunology: How Science Works” (ISBN 978-3-031-04024-5), “Cancer Biology: How Science Works” (ISBN 978-3-030-75699-4) and “Nutrigenomics: How Science Works” (ISBN 978-3-030-36948-4). By combining basic understanding of cellular mechanism with clinical examples, the authors hope to make this textbook a personal experience. A glossary in the appendix will explain the major specialist’s terms.
Molecular Medicines for Cancer: Concepts and Applications of Nanotechnology
by Ram I. Mahato Deepak Chitkara Anupama MittalThe field of molecular medicine covers the medical interventions targeting molecular structures and mechanisms that are involved in disease progression. In cancer, several molecular mechanisms have been shown to impact its progression, aggressiveness and chemoresistance. Increasing evidence demonstrates the role of nanotechnology and outcome of molecular therapy. Several books have discussed molecular biology and mechanisms involved in cancer, but this text gives an account of molecular therapeutics in cancer relating to advancements of nanotechnology. It provides a description of the multidisciplinary field of molecular medicines and its targeted delivery to cancer using nanotechnology. Key Features: Provides current information in the multidisciplinary field of molecular medicines and its targeted delivery to cancer using nanotechnology Presents important aspects of nanotechnology in the site-specific delivery of anticancer agents Includes up to date information on oligonucleotide and gene based therapies in cancer Describes small targeted molecules, antibodies and oligonucleotides which have shown to selectively target the molecular structures thereby influencing signal transduction Facilitates discussion between researchers involved in cancer therapy and nanoscientists
Molecular Methods for Evolutionary Genetics
by Matthew V. Rockman Virginie OrgogozoWe are entering a particularly fruitful period in evolutionary genetics, as rapid technological progress transforms the investigation of genetic variation within and between species. Molecular Methods for Evolutionary Genetics is a collection of advanced molecular biology protocols and general overviews intended to represent the essential methods currently bringing evolutionary genetics to fruition. Divided into six thematic sections, this volume covers methods for characterizing genomes, diverse approaches to enrich DNA for subsets of the genome prior to sequencing, and state-of-the-art protocols for sampling genetic variation for genetic mapping studies and population genetic studies (RAD sequencing, Sequenom, microarrays, etc.). The volume concludes by focusing on methods to study candidate genes, from obtaining their sequences and analyzing their transcripts to experimentally manipulating their activities in vivo. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular BiologyTM series format, chapters contain introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and accessible, Molecular Methods for Evolutionary Genetics serves as a rich resource to biologists interested in evolution, whether they be specialists or beginners in molecular biology.
Molecular Morphology in Human Tissues: Techniques and Applications (Advances in Pathology, Microscopy, & Molecular Morphology)
by Gerhard W. Hacker Raymond R. TubbsMolecular Morphology in Human Tissues: Techniques and Applications presents the most advanced molecular morphological techniques to date. This integrated approach to molecular morphology provides powerful analytical and diagnostic tools at the genome level, making the diagnosis and management of cancer, viral infections, and other diseases more pre
Molecular Neurobiological Techniques
by Alan A. Boulton Glen B. Baker Anthony T. CampagnoniMolecular Neurobiological Techniques explores the principles and techniques of molecular biology that have had a great impact on current investigations into the structure and function of the nervous system. It offers a solid basis for understanding how specific techniques are used to approach major neurobiological problems.
Molecular Neurobiology of Addiction Recovery
by Kenneth Blum Marlene Oscar-Berman John Femino John Giordano Mark Gold Scott TeitelbaumHumans are biologically programmed to seek out pleasurable experiences. These experiences are processed in the mesolimbic system, also referred to as the "reward center" of the brain, where a number of chemical messengers work in concert to provide a net release of dopamine in the Nucleus Accumbens. In some genetically predisposed individuals, addiction occurs when the mechanisms of the mesolimbic system are disrupted by the use of various drugs of abuse. Since Alcoholics Anonymous was founded in 1935, it's 12 step program of spiritual and character development has helped countless alcoholics and drug addicts curb their self-destructive behaviors. However, the program was developed at a time when comparatively little was known about the function of the brain and it has never been studied scientifically. This is the first book to take a systematic look at the molecular neurobiology associated with each of the 12 steps and to review the significant body of addiction research literature that is pertinent to the program.
Molecular Neurotoxicology: Environmental Agents and Transcription-Transduction Coupling
by Nasser H. ZawiaMolecular Neurotoxicology: Environmental Agents and Transcription-Transduction Coupling deals with changes in gene expression following exposure to neurotoxicants, as well as deciphering signal transduction or transcription coupling that is altered by the same exposure. Until now, little has been published on the topic in one reference, and toxicol
Molecular Oncology Testing for Solid Tumors
by Michael Ola Idowu Catherine Isabelle Dumur Carleton Theodore GarrettFamiliarity with and understanding molecular testing is becoming imperative for practicing physicians, especially pathologists and oncologists given the current explosion of molecular tests for diagnostic, prognostic and predictive indications. Molecular Oncology Testing for Solid Tumors is designed to present an up to date practical approach to molecular testing in a easy to understand format. Emphasis is placed on quality assurance (pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic) and test interpretation, including but not limited to: the important role of pathologists in ensuring specimen adequacy for molecular testing; factors to consider in choosing platforms for molecular assays; advantages and limitations inherent to common assays/platforms that pathologists need to communicate effectively with clinicians; the importance of required quality assurance measures to ensure accurate / reproducible results; pitfalls in test interpretation (including different types of artifacts that may lead to False Positive or False Negative interpretations); test reporting using standard nomenclature; review of the current and future potential utility of next-generation sequencing in oncology. All chapters are written by pathologists and clinicians experienced in practical applications of molecular tests for solid tumors. The uniqueness of this textbook is the use of a standardized template for each of the molecular tests being discussed followed by a discussion of relevant quality assurance issues to ensure focused and efficient presentation of information. This will enable readers to easily understand the Order, Report and Evaluate (ORE) process of molecular tests. Lastly, summary tables of all the molecular assays and mutations discussed in the text are provided as an appendix for quick reference. For readers interested in more detailed information, a link to websites where additional information can be obtained is provided.
Molecular Oncology: Underlying Mechanisms and Translational Advancements
by Muhammad Ismail Ammad Ahmad FarooqiCancer is a multifaceted and genomically complex disease and data obtained through high throughput technologies has provided near complete resolution of the landscape of how genomic, genetic and epigenetic mutations in cancerous cells effectively influence homeostasis of signaling networks within these cells, between cancerous cells, tumor microenvironment and at the organ level. Increasingly sophisticated information has helped us in developing a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of cancer, and it is now known that intra-tumor genetic heterogeneity, cellular plasticity, dysregulation of spatio-temporally controlled signaling cascades, and loss of apoptosis are contributory in cancer development, progression and the development of resistance against different therapeutics. It is becoming progressively more understandable that earlier detection of pre-existing or emerging resistance against different therapeutics may prove to be helpful in personalizing the use of targeted cancer therapy. Despite the fact that there is a continuously increasing list of books, being guest edited by researchers, books on the subject are often composed of invited reviews without proper sequence and continuity and designed for a particular readership. This book progressively shifts and guides the readers from basic underlying mechanisms to translational approaches to treat cancer.
Molecular Pathogenesis and Signal Transduction by Helicobacter pylori
by Steffen Backert Nicole TegtmeyerThis volume reviews the current state of research concerning bacterial virulence factors and the infection biology of Helicobacter pylori, which is the leading cause of peptic ulcers and gastric cancer worldwide. The chapters include cutting-edge findings on this fascinating microbe and discuss the general strategies of H. pylori infection and persistence, news on important H. pylori virulence factors, crosstalk with the microbiota, hot novel models and signaling mechanisms, risk factors of gastric disease and stomach cancer, and the impact of H. pylori infection on non-gastric diseases. Written by internationally respected scientists, this book will appeal to clinicians, researchers and advanced students alike.
Molecular Pathogenesis and Treatment of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
by Masahiro KizakiCovering the history of breast cancer, theory of radiofrequency ablation (RFA), resection of carcinoma, imaging before and after non-surgical ablation therapy and quality of life, this book focuses on extensive breast-conserving treatment for the preservation of a cosmetically acceptable breast. It investigates the feasibility of percutaneous, minimally invasive techniques to ablate breast tumors and several modalities such as cryosurgery, laser ablation, thermoablation and high-intensity focused ultrasound. Non-surgical Ablation Therapy for Early-stage Breast Cancer centers on RFA and provides insights into cryoablation and focused ultrasound surgery. RFA has been shown to be effective for treating tumors in many types of tissue, including liver, bone, brain, kidney, pancreas and prostate. As such this book is a valuable resource for breast and general surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists in all areas. The extensive discussions enable scholars to gain radiological expertise and a basic understanding of molecular biology, leading to better surgery without scalpels.
Molecular Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer
by Kevin M. HaigisColorectal cancer has for more than two decades served as the paradigm for the multi-step concept of cancer initiation and progression. Perhaps more than any other organ site, cancer of the colon is extensively characterized at the molecular level. We are now entering a time when molecular classification, rather than histologic classification, of cancer subtypes is driving the development of clinical trials with emerging targeted therapies. The book will focus on the progression from the identification of mutations that drive colorectal cancer initiation and progression to the search for novel therapies to treat the disease.
Molecular Pathology Protocols
by Anthony A. KilleenAnthony Killeen has assembled a collection of readily reproducible molecular pathology techniques that are either frequently performed or recognized for their significant diagnostic utility. Each method is described in step-by-step detail by a leading molecular pathologist or laboratory scientist who has developed it or used it extensively. These clinical laboratory techniques can be used for the diagnosis or monitoring of cancer, hematological malignancies, infectious diseases, and selected genetic disorders. Comprehensive and path-breaking, Molecular Pathology Protocols will enable clinical laboratories to introduce new molecular pathology tests and lay the groundwork for a much-needed standardization in this rapidly developing field.
Molecular Pathology and Diagnostics of Cancer
by Domenico CoppolaMolecular pathology is based on the emergence of new techniques that greatly enhance the diagnostic accuracy when facing with challenging differential diagnoses. In addition, new molecular techniques are entering the clinical arena for their value in predicting therapy response and tumor prognosis. This book provides a guide for the practicing pathologist and for both pathology residents and fellows during the daily sign-out of challenging cases. The book is organized by anatomical systems and provides a detailed description of molecular tests that may help in the diagnosis. Furthermore, a description of the current molecular tests required to identify patients for treatment is offered. The application of molecular pathology techniques to the clinical practice has already shown its usefulness and the number of such tests is growing exponentially as more molecular targets are discovered. Molecular Pathology and Diagnostics of Cancer will give practicing and training pathologists an up-to date resource to guide the correct management of pathology cases requiring molecular testing.
Molecular Pathology in Cancer Research
by Sunil R. Lakhani Stephen B. FoxThe aim of the book is to discuss the application of molecular pathology in cancer research, and its contribution in the classification of different tumors and identification of potential molecular targets, as well as how this knowledge may be translated into clinical practice, and the huge impact this field is likely to have in the next 5 to 10 years.
Molecular Pathology in Clinical Practice
by Debra G.B. LeonardThis authoritative textbook offers in-depth coverage of all aspects of molecular pathology practice and embodies the current standard in molecular testing. Since the successful first edition, new sections have been added on pharmacogenetics and genomics, while other sections have been revised and updated to reflect the rapid advances in the field. The result is a superb reference that encompasses molecular biology basics, genetics, inherited cancers, solid tumors, neoplastic hematopathology, infectious diseases, identity testing, HLA typing, laboratory management, genomics and proteomics. Throughout the text, emphasis is placed on the molecular variations being detected, the clinical usefulness of the tests and important clinical and laboratory issues. The second edition of Molecular Pathology in Clinical Practice will be an invaluable source of information for all practicing molecular pathologists and will also be of utility for other pathologists, clinical colleagues and trainees.
Molecular Pathology of Breast Cancer
by Sunil Badve Yesim Gökmen-PolarThe complex landscape of breast cancer requires distinct strategies for the management of various molecular subtypes of this disease. Rapid advances in the field of molecular biology have been bewildering for those involved in its study and management. "Molecular Pathology of Breast Cancer" aims to close this knowledge gap by discussing comprehensively the evolution, biological basis and clinical applications with a focus on the "what, when, and how" of the most significant molecular markers known to date. These markers are evaluated in the context of genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic profiles, which is integral to the practice of precision medicine. The application of next generation sequencing (NGS) has provided new insights in the regulation of genomic and transcriptomic structure and function. Alterations in DNA such as mutations and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been correlated with outcomes and provide for novel therapeutic approaches. These NGS analyses have also revealed the extensive contributions of epigenetic mechanisms such as histone modifications, non-coding RNA and alternative splicing. All of these changes together contribute to alterations in proteome. Newer assays that allow greater stability and analytical consistency are emerging. These alterations in tumor profiles can be also now detected by imaging techniques. The heterogeneity of both tumor and tumor microenvironment, an inevitable reality, is discussed in detail with particular focus on cancer stem cells and immune signaling. A chapter is dedicated to the emerging technology of "liquid biopsy", which opens a novel approach for "continuous" monitoring of cancer that might be superior to conventional diagnostics, "Molecular Pathology of Breast Cancer" provides a quick and easy, not to mention essential, tour for clinicians, pathologists and scientists who are seeking to understand the integration of molecular biology into the diagnosis, prognosis and management of breast cancer.
Molecular Pathology of Endocrine Diseases
by Philip T. Cagle Jennifer L. HuntThe past two decades have seen an ever-accelerating growth in knowledge about molecular pathology of human diseases which received a large boost with the sequencing of the human genome in 2003. Molecular diagnostics, molecular targeted therapy and genetic therapy are now routine in many medical centers. The molecular field now impacts every field in medicine, whether clinical research or routine patient care. There is a great need for basic researchers to understand the potential clinical implications of their research whereas private practice clinicians of all types (general internal medicine and internal medicine specialists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, pediatricians, family practice), clinical investigators, pathologists and medical laboratory directors and radiologists require a basic understanding of the fundamentals of molecular pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment for their patients. Traditional textbooks in molecular biology deal with basic science and are not readily applicable to the medical setting. Most medical textbooks that include a mention of molecular pathology in the clinical setting are limited in scope and assume that the reader already has a working knowledge of the basic science of molecular biology. Other texts emphasize technology and testing procedures without integrating the clinical perspective. There is an urgent need for a text that fills the gap between basic science books and clinical practice. In the Molecular Pathology Library series the basic science and the technology is integrated with the medical perspective and clinical application. Each book in the series is divided according to neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases for each of the organ systems traditionally associated with medical subspecialties. Each book in the series is organized to provide (1) a succinct background of the essential terminology, concepts and technology of molecular biology, (2) an overview of the broad application of molecular biology principles to disease and (3) specific application of molecular pathology to the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases specific to each organ system. These broad section topics will be broken down into succinct chapters, averaging about 15 to 20 pages each, to cover a very specific disease entity. The chapters will be written by established authorities on the specific topic from academic centers around the world. In one book, diverse subjects are included that the reader would have to pursue from multiple sources in order to have a clear understanding of the molecular pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of specific diseases. Attempting to hunt for the full information from basic concept to specific applications for a disease from the varied sources is time-consuming and frustrating. By providing this quick and user-friendly reference, understanding and application of this rapidly growing field is made more accessible to both expert and generalist alike. As books that bridge the gap between basic science and clinical understanding and practice, the Molecular Pathology Series serves the basic scientist, the clinical researcher and the practicing physician or other health care provider who require more understanding of the application of basic research to patient care, from "bench to bedside." This series is unique and an invaluable resource. These books will be indispensable to physicians and health care providers in multiple disciplines as noted above, to residents and fellows in these multiple disciplines as well as their teaching institutions and to researchers who increasingly must justify the clinical implications of their research.
Molecular Pathology of Hematolymphoid Diseases
by Philip T. Cagle Cherie H. DunphyThe past two decades have seen an ever-accelerating growth in knowledge about molecular pathology of human diseases which received a large boost with the sequencing of the human genome in 2003. Molecular diagnostics, molecular targeted therapy and genetic therapy are now routine in many medical centers. The molecular field now impacts every field in medicine, whether clinical research or routine patient care. There is a great need for basic researchers to understand the potential clinical implications of their research whereas private practice clinicians of all types (general internal medicine and internal medicine specialists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, pediatricians, family practitioners), clinical investigators, pathologists and medical laboratory directors and radiologists require a basic understanding of the fundamentals of molecular pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment for their patients. Traditional textbooks in molecular biology deal with basic science and are not readily applicable to the medical setting. Most medical textbooks that include a mention of molecular pathology in the clinical setting are limited in scope and assume that the reader already has a working knowledge of the basic science of molecular biology. Other texts emphasize technology and testing procedures without integrating the clinical perspective. There is an urgent need for a text that fills the gap between basic science books and clinical practice. In the Molecular Pathology Library series the basic science and the technology is integrated with the medical perspective and clinical application. Each book in the series is divided according to neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases for each of the organ systems traditionally associated with medical subspecialties. Each book in the series is organized to provide specific application of molecular pathology to the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases specific to each organ system. These broad section topics are broken down into succinct chaptersto cover a very specific disease entity. The chapters are written by established authorities on the specific topic from academic centers around the world. In one book, diverse subjects are included that the reader would have to pursue from multiple sources in order to have a clear understanding of the molecular pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of specific diseases. Attempting to hunt for the full information from basic concept to specific applications for a disease from varied sources is time-consuming and frustrating. By providing this quick and user-friendly reference, understanding and application of this rapidly growing field is made more accessible to both expert and generalist alike. As books that bridge the gap between basic science and clinical understanding and practice, the Molecular Pathology Series serves the basic scientist, the clinical researcher and the practicing physician or other health care provider who require more understanding of the application of basic research to patient care, from "bench to bedside." This series is unique and an invaluable resource to those who need to know about molecular pathology from a clinical, disease-oriented perspective. These books will be indispensable to physicians and health care providers in multiple disciplines as noted above, to residents and fellows in these multiple disciplines as well as their teaching institutions and to researchers who increasingly must justify the clinical implications of their research.