Curious to know what determines the gender of a baby?

The mystery lies in the chromosomes. The knowledge of chromosomes is essential for understanding human genetics. The field has attracted much research and everyday there are ongoing discoveries. Human cells consist of 46 chromosomes which make 23 pairs. In males and females, the first 22 are similar across both genders and are known as autosomes. The last one pair (23rd) is known as the sex chromosome and makes all the difference.

The sex chromosome of females contains two Xs while that for males contains one Y and one X. The presence of this last chromosome pair determines the gender of a baby. Apart from the X and Y difference, these chromosomes have many other differences which form the characteristics of the two genders. Knowing these differences is going to help you understand the differences between the genetic make up of the two genders and pave way for more research.

The behaviour of this X chromosome in males is different from those in the female chromosome.

The female chromosome has more working genes than the male one. It is known to have more than 1000 working genes while the male chromosome has less than 100. Of these 1000 working genes, 200 to 300 are gender specific while the remaining are shared across the two genders.

Average female chromosomes are recorded to be greater in size than male chromosome. Exceptions may occur but these are the average measurements. The specific cause for this is not known yet.

1

Female Chromosome:

The female sex chromosome pair does not contain any Y chromosome. The pair is an XX and the two X chromosomes are equal in size and chromosomal pairing.

An additional X chromosome, giving an XXX configuration, results in triple X syndrome where a women is taller than others and has an average IQ. If there is just one X in the sex chromosome, the Turners syndrome occurs where a born female is shorter, infertile and lower in IQ level than those with normal XX pairs.

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Difference between Male and Female Chromosomes

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1 on 1 Confidential Consultation with Dr. Armani for Male Hormone Therapy in Dallas, TX NO SALES COUNSELORS

In addition to being a contributor to scientific articles, Dr. Abraham Armani has been a consulting advisor to or acknowledged/featured as an expert physician in CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Fox News Radio, Health Radio, CBS Radio, Readers Digest and Dermatology Times as well as other media outlets.

Dr. Abraham Armani has been presented the PATIENTS' CHOICE AWARD for providing outstanding patient care.

Call or email today to schedule a free, personal consultation with Dr. Armani about anti aging and male hormone replacement therapy in Dallas, TX.

Phone: (972) 2 ARMANI (972) 227-6264

Click here to contact us

How Can Armani Anti Aging in Dallas, TX Help?

Dr. Abraham Armani MD is a well recognized Dallas anti-aging specialist who uses the latest scientific methodology from across the world to treat his patients. As a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Doctors, Armani helps his patients in Dallas, Texas look and feel their best.

We start with a thorough medical history and examination. Dr. Armani's focus is on normalizing male hormone levels using laboratory testing and a proven scientific protocol.

We offer bio-identical male hormone therapy in Dallas, which includes Testosterone, HCG as well as guidance on overall health improvement techniques and decisions.

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Dallas Anti Aging Clinic for Men | Male Hormone ...

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What are the symptoms of hypopituitarism? ...

The symptoms of hypopituitarism depend on the specific hormone that is lacking. For example, patients with reduced ACTH secretion have low cortisol levels, which can result in loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness and/or lightheadedness. This condition is called "adrenal insufficiency." Patients with reduced TSH secretion have low thyroid hormone levels resulting in a condition called "hypothyroidism". Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can include weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, constipation, cold intolerance and hair loss. Women of reproductive age with reduced LH and FSH secretion develop amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods), infertility, and bone loss due to low estrogen levels. Men with low LH and FSH levels develop low testosterone levels, which results in lack of libido (sex drive), erectile dyfunction, infertility, fatigue, body composition abnormalities (loss of muscle mass and an increase in abdominal fat), bone loss, and sometimes, depression. Low growth hormone (GH) in children leads to short stature. In adults, GH deficiency is associated with a diminished quality of life, body composition abnormalities (including a reduction in muscle mass and increase in abdominal fat mass) and low bone density. Women with low prolactin are unable to breastfeed, but there are no known adverse effects of low prolactin in men.

Pituitary Symptoms

Hypopituitarism is caused by damage to the pituitary gland, usually from a tumor, radiation, surgery. Traumatic brain injury and subarachnoid hemorrhages can also cause hypopituitarism. Occasionally inflammation can cause hypopituitarism and sometimes the cause is unclear. Medications can also cause hypopituitarism. For example, high-dose steroid use can lead to adrenal insufficiency and anabolic steroid use can result in low testosterone that lasts beyond the time in which the medication is used and can be permanent.

Research Studies

The complications of hypopituitarism are due to the specific hormone deficiency. See "What are the symptoms of hypopituitarism" above. Patient with hypopituitarism not receiving appropriate hormone replacement therapies have an increased risk of mortality.

Research Studies

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. However, in some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred immediately to an endocrinologist, a doctor who specializes in endocrine (hormonal) disorders.

Special Instructions (If available, please bring):

Our clinic assistants will help you update your hospital registration and insurance information.

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Hypopituitarism and Hypopituitarism Resources - What is ...

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Hypopituitarism is a general term that refers to any under-performance of the pituitary gland. This is a clinical definition used by endocrinologists and is interpreted to mean that one or more functions of the pituitary are deficient. The term may refer to both anterior and posterior pituitary gland failure. Below is a list of the hormones secreted by the pituitary and their functions:

In cases of hypopituitarism, single or multiple hormone deficiencies are present. The deficiencies affect the target organ activity or secretion (the thyroid; the adrenals; or the gonads, which includes both female and male sexual development and function). Causes of hypopituitarism are tumors or lesions of various origins, congenital defects, trauma, radiation, surgery, encephalitis, hemochromatosis, and stroke. In children, the condition results in slowed growth and development and is known as dwarfism. The cause may also be unknown.

Deficient pituitary gland function can result from damage to either the pituitary or the area just above the pituitary, namely the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus contains releasing and inhibitory hormones that control the pituitary. Since these hormones are necessary for normal pituitary function, damage to the hypothalamus can also result in deficient pituitary gland function. Injury to the pituitary can occur from a variety of insults, including damage from an enlarging pituitary tumor, irradiation of the pituitary gland, limited blood supply (as experienced in a stroke), trauma or abnormal iron storage (hemochromatosis). There appears to be a predictable loss of hormonal function with increasing damage. The progression from most vulnerable to least vulnerable is usually as follows:

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

Men develop testicular suppression with decreased libido, impotence, decreased ejaculate volume, loss of body and facial hair, weakness, fatigue and often anemia. On testing, blood levels of testosterone are low and should be replaced. In the United States, testosterone may be given as a bi-weekly intramuscular injection, in a patch form or as a gel or creme preparation. In some countries, oral preparations of testosterone are available.

Thyroid Stimulation Hormone (TSH) Deficiency Deficiency of thyroid hormone causes a syndrome consisting of decreased energy, increased need to sleep, intolerance of cold (inability to stay warm), dry skin, constipation, muscle aching and decreased mental functions. This variety of symptoms is very uncomfortable and is often the symptom complex that drives patients with pituitary disease to seek medical attention. Replacement therapy consists of a either T4 (thyroxine) and/or T3 (triiodothyronine). The correct dose is determined through experimentation and blood tests.

Adrenal Hormone Deficiency Deficiency of ACTH resulting in cortisol deficiency is the most dangerous and life-threatening of the hormonal deficiency syndromes. With gradual onset of deficiency over days or weeks, symptoms are often vague and may include weight loss, fatigue, weakness, depression, apathy, nausea, vomiting, anorexia and hyperpigmentation. As the deficiency becomes more serious or has a more rapid onset (Addison crisis), symptoms of confusion, stupor, psychosis, abnormal electrolytes (low serum sodium, elevated serum potassium), and vascular collapse (low blood pressure and shock) can occur. Treatment consists of cortisol administration or another similar steroid (like prednisone). For patients with acute adrenal insufficiency, rapid intravenous administration of high dose steroids is essential to reverse the crisis.

Posterior Pituitary Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) Deficiency Replacement of antidiuretic hormone resolves the symptoms of increased thirst and urination seen in diabetes insipidus. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is currently replaced by administration of a synthetic type of ADH either by subcutaneous injection, intranasal spray, or by tablet, usually once or twice a day.

Endocrine substitution therapy is indicated for replacement of hormones for the affected organs. These include corticosteroids, thyroid hormone, sex hormones (testosterone for men and estrogen for women), and growth hormone. Drugs are available to treat associated infertility in men and women.

Growth hormone is only available in injectable form and is usually given 6-7 times per week. Homeopathic GH or IGF has been proven to provide benefits in blinded trials.

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Hypopituitarism - Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and ...

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Note: There are different data sources for some of the arthritis-related statistics therefore; case definitions and terminology will also vary. Read more.

Nearly 1 in 2 people may develop symptomatic knee OA by age 85 years.

Two in three people who are obese may develop symptomatic knee OA in their lifetime.

1 in 4 people may develop painful hip arthritis in their lifetime.

Note: There are different data sources for some of the arthritis-related statistics therefore; case definitions and terminology will also vary. Read more.

An estimated 52.5 million adults in the United States reported being told by a doctor that they have some form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia.

One in five (22.7%) adults in the United States report having doctor diagnosed arthritis.

In 2010-2012, 49.7% of adults 65 years or older reported an arthritis diagnosis.

By 2030, an estimated 67 million Americans ages 18 years or older are projected to have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

Arthritis & Rheumatism 2006;54(1):226-229 [Data Source: 2003 NHIS]

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CDC - Arthritis - Data and Statistics - Arthritis Related ...

Recommendation and review posted by simmons

Pityriasis rosea (also known as pityriasis rosea Gibert[1]) is a skin rash. It is benign but may inflict substantial discomfort in certain cases.[2] Classically, it begins with a single "herald patch" lesion, followed in 1 or 2 weeks by a generalized body rash lasting up to 12 weeks, however usually around 6 - 8.[3][4][5]

The symptoms of this condition include:

The cause of pityriasis rosea is not certain, but its clinical presentation and immunologic reactions suggest a viral infection as a cause. Some believe it to be a reactivation of herpes viruses 6 and 7, which cause roseola in infants.[9][10][11][12]

Experienced practitioners may make the diagnosis clinically.[5] If the diagnosis is in doubt, tests may be performed to rule out similar conditions such as Lyme disease, ringworm, guttate psoriasis, nummular or discoid eczema, drug eruptions, other viral exanthems.[5][13] A biopsy of the lesions will show extravasated erythrocytes within dermal papillae and dyskeratotic cells within the dermis.[5]

A set of validated diagnostic criteria for pityriasis rosea[14][15] is as follows:

A patient is diagnosed as having pityriasis rosea if:

The essential clinical features are the following:

The optional clinical features are the following:

The exclusional clinical features are the following:

No treatment is usually required.

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Pityriasis rosea - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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If youre miserable with osteoarthritis symptoms, knee injections may be one treatment your doctor orders. Read on as a leading orthopedist explains what every woman needs to know about relieving joint pain and swelling...

Suffering from pain and swelling in your knee? Put down the over-the-counter painkillers, and make an appointment with your doctor.

If you wait, your knee injury might lead to osteoarthritis symptoms, says Luga Podesta, M.D., a sports medicine specialist at Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles.

See your doctor and get referred to a knee specialist sooner, not later, Dr. Podesta advises. The longer you put up with the pain, the worse the damage will become. And then youre looking at knee-replacement surgery.

Early intervention with newer treatments, such as hyaluronic acid and plasma from your own blood, can prevent further joint deterioration, he says.

There are medications and biologic therapies we can inject into your knee to keep the pain down and keep you active longer, Dr. Podesta says.

In this exclusive Lifescript interview, Dr. Podesta answers questions about knee injections and explains how they reduce knee pain and limit osteoarthritis damage to your joints.

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How Knee Injections Ease Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms ...

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This clinic provides expert consultation and treatment for women, especially new mothers or mothers-to-be, in cases where hormone function, especially during and after pregnancy, may influence the female brain -like, mood changes, trouble sleeping, depression, worries, anxiety, irritability, decreased ability to focus and concentrate, decreased energy, difficulty connecting with the baby, anxiety, libido and well-being. Examples of the types of symptoms we treat include (but are not limited to):

The Women's Mood & Hormone Clinic / Moms Program also sees teen girls and women with general complaints related to mood, anxiety, sleep and libido - whether or not hormone involvement is suspected as the cause. For example, women with depression, anxiety disorders, sexual complaints, or psychiatric medication issues may be seen by the clinic.

Please keep in mind that we are a clinic specializing in the psychological aspects of hormones on the female brain. If you are seeking medical assistance regarding endocrine diseases, please consult an endocrinologist. If you are uncertain about whether we will meet your needs, please discuss the contents of this website with your primary care physician, enodcrinologist, neurologist, pediatrician, OB-gyn, psychologist, or psychiatrist.

For an appointment, please call our intake and referral service at (415) 476-7500 or toll-free at (800)723-7140.

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Women's Mood & Hormone Clinic / Moms Program | UCSF ...

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With Brigham and Womens Hospital and Boston Childrens Hospital, Dana-Farber has performed thousands of stem cell/bone marrow transplants for adult and pediatric patients with blood cancers and other serious illnesses.

Whats the difference between these two terms? As it turns out, the only real distinction is in the method of collecting the stem cells.

Lets start with the basics.

Stem cells are versatile cells with the ability to divide and develop into many other kinds of cells.

Hematopoietic stem cells produce red blood cells, which deliver oxygen throughout the body; white blood cells, which help ward off infections; and platelets, which allow blood to clot and wounds to heal.

While chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy are essential treatments for the majority of cancer patients, high doses can severely weakenand even wipe outhealthy stem cells. Thats where stem cell transplantation comes in.

Stem cell transplantation is a general term that describes the procedures performed by the Adult Stem Cell Transplantation Program at Dana-Farber/Brigham and Womens Cancer Center and the Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation Program at Dana-Farber/Boston Childrens Cancer and Blood Disorders Center.

Stem cells for transplant can come from bone marrow or blood.

When stem cells are collected from bone marrow and transplanted into a patient, the procedure is known as a bone marrow transplant. If the transplanted stem cells came from the bloodstream, the procedure is called a peripheral blood stem cell transplantsometimes shortened to stem cell transplant.

Whether you hear someone talking about a stem cell transplant or a bone marrow transplant, they are still referring to stem cell transplantation. The only difference is where in the body the transplanted stem cells came from. The transplants themselves are the same.

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Stem Cell vs. Bone Marrow Transplant: Whats the ...

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Description

An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell anemia

What is Sickle Cell Disease?

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder in which the body produces abnormally shaped red blood cells. In sickle cell disease, the hemoglobin in red blood cells clumps together. This causes red blood cells to become stiff and C-shaped. These sickle cells block blood and oxygen flow in blood vessels. Sickle cells break down more rapidly than normal red blood cells, which results in anemia.

What Causes Sickle Cell Disease?

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder. People who have sickle cell disease are born with two sickle cell genes, one from each parent. If one normal hemoglobin gene and one sickle cell gene are inherited, a person will have sickle cell trait. People who have sickle cell trait do not develop sickle cell disease, but they are carriers who can pass the abnormal gene on to their children.

Complications of Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease can block the flow of blood in arteries in many parts of the body, causing many complications. The hallmark of sickle cell disease is the sickle cell crisis, which causes sudden attacks of severe pain. Acute chest syndrome, which is triggered by an infection or by blockage of blood vessels in the lungs, is another common and serious occurrence. Additional medical complications include:

New Recommended Vaccine

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Sickle cell disease | University of Maryland Medical Center

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HOME

Gene Therapy

Challenges in Gene Therapy?

Gene therapy is not a new field; it has been evolving for decades. Despite the best efforts of researchers around the world, however, gene therapy has seen only limited success. Why?

Gene therapy poses one of the greatest technical challenges in modern medicine. It is very hard to introduce new genes into cells of the body and keep them working. And there are financial concerns: Can a company profit from developing a gene therapy to treat a rare disorder? If not, who will develop and pay for these life-saving treatments?

Let's look at some of the main challenges in gene therapy.

For some disorders, gene therapy will work only if we can deliver a normal gene to a large number of cellssay several millionin a tissue. And they have to the correct cells, in the correct tissue. Once the gene reaches its destination, it must be activated, or turned on, to make the protein it encodes. And once it's turned on, it must remain on; cells have a habit of shutting down genes that are too active or exhibiting other unusual behaviors.

Introducing changes into the wrong cells Targeting a gene to the correct cells is crucial to the success of any gene therapy treatment. Just as important, though, is making sure that the gene is not incorporated into the wrong cells. Delivering a gene to the wrong tissue would be inefficient, and it could cause health problems for the patient.

For example, improper targeting could incorporate the therapeutic gene into a patient's germline, or reproductive cells, which ultimately produce sperm and eggs. Should this happen, the patient would pass the introduced gene to his or her children. The consequences would vary, depending on the gene.

Our immune systems are very good at fighting off intruders such as bacteria and viruses. Gene-delivery vectors must be able to avoid the body's natural surveillance system. An unwelcome immune response could cause serious illness or even death.

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Challenges in Gene Therapy - Learn Genetics

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Stem Cell Clinical Research & Deployment Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Conditions

The Manhattan Regenerative Medicine Medical Group is proud to be part of the only Institutional Review Board (IRB)-based stem cell treatment network in the United States that utilizes fat-transfer surgical technology. The Manhattan Regenerative Medicine Medical Group offers IRB approved protocols and investigational use ofAdult Autologous Adipose-derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) for clinical research and deployment for numerous Cardiovascular and Pulmonary disorders, inclusive of:

Cardiovascular conditions include medical problems involving the heart and vascular system (the arterial and venous blood vessels). The most common cardiovascular condition is atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (ASCVD), which especially affects the coronary arteries and is the leading cause of heart attacks and death worldwide; and Congestive Heart Failure (CHF).

Other common cardiovascular conditions involve the cardiac muscle (CHF), cardiac valves, and heart rhythm. Many patients are typically treated with a multitude of medications; many patients require surgical interventions such as coronary angioplasty, coronary artery bypass, or other surgeries. Often patients, despite maximum therapy with medications and surgery, continue to suffer pain, discomfort, disability and have marked restrictions in their normal daily living activities.

The Manhattan Regenerative Medicine Medical Group is proud to be part of the only Institutional Review Board (IRB)-based stem cell treatment network in the United States that utilizes fat-transfer surgical technology. We have an array of ongoing IRB-approved protocols, andwe provide care for patients with a wide variety of disorders that may be treated with adult stem cell-based regenerative therapy.

The Manhattan Regenerative Medicine Medical Group offers IRB approved protocols and investigational use of Autologous Adult Adipose Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) for clinical research and deployment for numerous cardiovascular conditions. These ADSCs cells are derived from fat an exceptionally abundant source of stem cells that has been removed during our mini-liposuction office procedure. The source of the regenerative stem cells actually comes from stromal vascular fraction (SVF) a protein rich segment from processed adipose tissue. SVF contains a mononuclear cell line (predominantly autologous mesenchymal stem cells), macrophage cells, endothelial cells, red blood cells, and important growth factors that facilitate the stem cell process and promote their activity. Our technology allows us to isolate high numbers of viable cells that we can deploy during the same surgical setting.

The SVF and stem cells are then deployed back into the patients body via injection or IV infusion on an outpatient basis; the total procedure takes less than two hours; and only local anesthesia is used. Not all cardiovascular problems respond to stem cell therapy, and each patient must be assessed individually to determine the potential for optimal results from this regenerative medicine process.

The Manhattan Regenerative Medicine Medical Group is committed not only to providing a high degree of quality care for our patients with cardiovascular problems but we are also highly committed to clinical stem cell research and the advancement of regenerative medicine. At the Miami Stem Cell Treatment Center we exploit anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulatory and regenerative properties of adult stem cells to mitigate cardiovascular conditions which are otherwise lethal to our bodies.

Myocardial infarction (heart attack) is responsible for significant cardiac muscle destruction and impairment due to ischemia (lack of blood flow). This can lead to further or recurrent restriction of blood flow thereby causing re-current infarct and pain on exertion (or even rest) known as chronic angina. Chronic angina causes restriction of daily activities of everyday living and is plagued with chest pain, chest pressure, and depression. This problem is caused most commonly by coronary artery disease which is very common in the United States and associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

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Cardiovascular Stem Cell Therapy

Recommendation and review posted by sam

Stem cells are the building blocks of your skin. They have a unique ability to replace damaged and diseased cells. As they divide, they can proliferate for long periods into millions of new skin cells.

As we age, our stem cells lose their potency. Your skin's ability to repair itself just isn't what it used to be. The result can be fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. But non-embryonic stem cells -- the same stem cells active early in life -- are highly potent. Lifeline stem cell serums tap into the potency of these stem cells to help renew your skin's appearance.

Scientists at Lifeline Skin Care discovered that human non-embryonic stem cell extracts can help fight the look of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. These stem cell extractsare mixed with powerful moisturizers and other carefully selected ingredients to help slow the signs of aging. And Lifeline stem cell serums were born.

Where Stem Cells in Lifeline Products Come From

The first types of human stem cells to be studied by researchers were embryonic stem cells, donated from in vitro fertilization labs. But because creating embryonic stem cells involves the destruction of a fertilized human embryo, many people have ethical concerns about the use of such cells.

Lifeline Skin Care (through its parent company, International Stem Cell Corporation) is the first company in the world to discover how to create human non-embryonic stem cells -- and how to take extracts from them. As a result, you need never be concerned that a viable human embryo was damaged or destroyed to create these extraordinary skin care products.

The non-embryonic stem cells in Lifeline stem cell serums are derived from unfertilized human oocytes (eggs) which are donated to ISCO from in vitro fertilization labs and clinics.

Lifeline Skin Care Stem Cell Serums are Based in Science

Lifeline Skin Care's exclusive skin care products are a combination of several discoveries and unique high-technology, with patent-pending formulations.

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Anti Aging Stem Cell Serums Visibly Renew Skin

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An International Leader in Regenerative Medicine

The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) is a leader in translating scientific discovery into clinical therapies.

Physicians and scientists at WFIRM were the first in the world to engineer laboratory-grown organs that were successfully implanted into humans. Today, this interdisciplinary team is working to engineer more than 30 different replacement tissues and organs and to develop healing cell therapies-all with the goal to cure, rather than merely treat, disease.

Regenerative medicine has been called the "next evolution of medical treatments," by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. With its potential to heal, this new field of science is expected to revolutionize health care.

"We have many challenges to meet, but are optimistic about the ability of the field to have a significant impact on human health. We believe regenerative medicine promises to be one of the most pervasive influences on public health in the modern era."- Anthony Atala, MD, Director

Why is public education on regenerative medicine important?Watch the videos below from leaders in the field of regenerative medicine to get this answer and learn more.The Regenerative Medicine Network is a newly formed collaboration between the Regenerative Medicine Foundation and MDTV Inc. The network will be a digital information and education hub available to the public through participating web portals such as the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine.

Read more here:
Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine - Official Site

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When injured or invaded by disease, our bodies have the innate response to heal and defend. What if it was possible to harness the power of the body to heal and then accelerate it in a clinically relevant way? What if we could help the body heal better?

The promising field of Regenerative Medicine is working to restore structure and function of damaged tissues and organs. It is also working to create solutions for organs that become permanently damaged. The goal of this medicine is to find a way to cure previously untreatable injuries and diseases.

1

Some patients must manually empty their bladder but the complications dont end there. The inability to urinate at will, or even to regulate the build up of urine, could cause back up into the kidneys, creating life-threatening damage.

But wait, a revolutionary event has occurred! A series of child and teenage patients have received urinary bladders grown from their own cells! This is the first ever laboratory-grown organ transplant placed into a human, all made possible by Regenerative Medicine.

Regenerative Medicine is working to improve the quality of life for patients all over the world. Scientists work with this powerful technology to create new body parts from a patients own cells and tissues. Success of these efforts will eliminate the concept of tissue rejection.

Learn more about the study of artificial organs and how scientists are working to replace damaged or diseased tissue with synthetic devices (fully artificial organs) or synthetic and cellular components (biohybrid organs).

Also find out how medical devices provide the ability to sustain patients during their long wait for a donor organ, and occasionally eliminate the need for a transplant altogether.

2

Heart disease affects many Americans and the only current solution requires a heart transplant. Even if a patient is able to survive long enough to receive a heart, there is no promise that the body will not reject the foreign organ.

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RegenerativeMedicine.net - What is regenerative medicine?

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This report covers the latest pharmaceutical global market insights for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) disease treatments and provides market forecasts, trends, pipelines, patent analysis and profiles of major players within the markets.

Report Highlights:

- The report provides the forecast of global market for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) disease treatments and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) over the next five years from 2014 to 2019.

- This report make available an invaluable tool for business planners, acquisitions specialists, licensing strategists, product managers, market research analysts, investors, consultant, members of the pharmaceutical, healthcare and biotechnology industries and anyone interested in the MS disease and its future.

- The importance of identifying overall market trends production opportunities, emerging geographic merger and acquisition opportunities, and insights that provides guidance for the sales growth.

- Discussion on market drivers and inhibitors, and the area of unmet clinical need.

- Information on the regulatory environment and impacts of appovals. agencies.

- Determines the current status of the market for disease-modifying multiple sclerosis (MS) drugs, biologics and vaccines, and to assess their growth potential over a five-year period from 2014 through 2019.

- Special focus is placed on how new products and technologies will affect current market leaders in the MS treatment sector.

- Report presents detailed profiles of the MS disease-modifying products on the market around the world and in the U.S.

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Multiple Sclerosis: Treatment and Global Market - Research ...

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Abstract

Myocardial infarctioninduced heart failure is a prevailing cause of death in the United States and most developed countries. The cardiac tissue has extremely limited regenerative potential, and heart transplantation for reconstituting the function of damaged heart is severely hindered mainly due to the scarcity of donor organs. To that end, stem cells with their extensive proliferative capacity and their ability to differentiate toward functional cardiomyocytes may serve as a renewable cellular source for repairing the damaged myocardium. Here, we review recent studies regarding the cardiogenic potential of adult progenitor cells and embryonic stem cells. Although large strides have been made toward the engineering of cardiac tissues using stem cells, important issues remain to be addressed to enable the translation of such technologies to the clinical setting.

Heart disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the United States, heart failure is ranked number one as a cause of death, affecting over 5 million people and with more than 500,000 new cases diagnosed each year.1 The health care expenditures associated with heart failure were $26.7 billion in 2004 and are estimated to $33.2 billion in 2007. Although significant progress has been made in mechanical devices and pharmacological interventions, more than half of the patients with heart failure die within 5 years of initial diagnosis. Wide application of heart transplantation is severely hindered by the limited availability of donor organs. To this end, cardiac cell therapy may be an appealing alternative to current treatments for heart failure.

Recent investigations focusing on engineering cells and tissues to repair or regenerate damaged hearts in animal models and in clinical trials have yielded promising results. Considering the limited regenerative capacity of the heart muscle, renewable sources of cardiomyocytes are highly sought. Cells suitable for myocardial engineering should be nonimmunogenic, should be easy to expand to large quantities, and should differentiate into mature, fully functional cardiomyocytes capable of integrating to the host tissue. Adult progenitor cells (APCs) and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have extensive proliferative potential and can adopt different cell fates, including that of heart cells. The recent advances in the fields of stem cell biology and heart tissue engineering have intensified efforts toward the development of regenerative cardiac therapies. In this article, we review findings pertaining to the cardiogenic potential of major APC populations and of ESCs (). We also discuss significant challenges in the way of realizing stem cellbased therapies aiming to reconstitute the normal function of heart.

Potential sources of stem/progenitor cells for cardiac repair. ESCs derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst can be manipulated ex vivo to differentiate toward heart cells. APCs residing in various tissues such as the BM and skeletal muscle may ...

Bone marrow (BM) is a heterogeneous tissue comprising of multiple cell types, including minute fractions of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs; 0.0010.01% of total cells2) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs; 0.71.5cells/108 nucleated marrow cells3). The heterogeneity of BM makes challenging the identification of a subpopulation of cells capable of cardiogenesis, and studies of BM celltocardiac cell transdifferentiation should be examined through this prism.

The notion that BM-derived cells may contribute to the regeneration of the heart was first illustrated when dystrophic (mdx) female mice received BM cells from male wild-type mice.4 More than 2 months after the transplantation, tissues of the recipient mice were histologically examined for the presence of Y-chromosome+ donor cells. Besides the skeletal muscle, donor cells were identified in the cardiac region, suggesting that circulating BM cells contribute to the regeneration of cardiomyocytes.

Further supporting evidence was provided by Jackson et al.5 in studies using a side population (SP) of cells characterized by their intrinsic capacity to efflux Hoechst 33342 dye through the ATP-binding Bcrp1/ABCG2 transporter. The cells were isolated from the BM fraction of HSCs of Rosa26 mice constitutively expressing the -galactosidase reporter gene (LacZ). After SP cells were injected into mice with coronary occlusioninduced ischemia, cells coexpressing LacZ and cardiac -actinin were identified around the infarct region with a frequency of 0.02%. Endothelial engraftment was more prevalent (3.3%). The observed improvement in myocardial function may thus be attributed to the potential of BM cells to give rise to a rather endothelial progeny. This may be a parallel to cardiovascular progenitors from differentiating ESCs giving rise to cardiomyocytes, and endothelial and vascular smooth muscle lineages.6,7

Orlic et al.8 also reported the regeneration of infarcted myocardium after transplantation of lineage-negative (LIN)/C-KIT+ BM cells from transgenic mice constitutively expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP). Cells were injected in the contracting wall close to the infarct area. Nine days after transplantation, an impressive 68% of the infarct was occupied by newly formed myocardium with eGFP+ cells displaying cardiomyocyte markers such as troponin, MEF2, NKX2.5, cardiac myosin, GATA-4, and -sarcomeric actin. Similar outcomes were reported by the same group9 when mouse C-KIT+ (but not screened for LIN) BM cells were transplanted.

Although these findings led to the conclusion that BM cells can repopulate a damaged heart, work by other investigators has casted doubt on this assertion. Balsam et al.10 noted that mice with infarcts receiving BM LIN/C-KIT+, C-KIT-enriched or THY1.1low/LIN/stem cell antigen-1 (SCA-1+) cells exhibited improved ventricular function. However, donor cells expressed granulocyte but not heart cell markers 1 month after injection. In another study,11 HSCs carrying a nuclear-localized LacZ gene flanked by the cardiac -myosin heavy chain promoter were delivered into the periinfarct zone of mice 5h after coronary artery occlusion. One to 4 weeks later, LacZ+ cells were absent in heart tissue sections from 117 mice that received HSCs. Similarly, no eGFP+ cells were detected in the infarcted hearts of mice infused with BM cells constitutively expressing eGFP. Finally, Nygren et al.12 in similar transplantation experiments observed only blood cells (mainly leukocytes) originating from BM HSCs in the infarcted myocardium without evidence of transdifferentiation of donor cells to cardiomyocytes.

Continued here:
Stem Cells for Heart Cell Therapies - National Center for ...

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regenerative medicine,cartilage: bronchus repair using bioartificial tissue transplantationHospital Clinic of Barcelona/APthe application of treatments developed to replace tissues damaged by injury or disease. These treatments may involve the use of biochemical techniques to induce tissue regeneration directly at the site of damage or the use of transplantation techniques employing differentiated cells or stem cells, either alone or as part of a bioartificial tissue. Bioartificial tissues are made by seeding cells onto natural or biomimetic scaffolds (see tissue engineering). Natural scaffolds are the total extracellular matrixes (ECMs) of decellularized tissues or organs. In contrast, biomimetic scaffolds may be composed of natural materials, such as collagen or proteoglycans (proteins with long chains of carbohydrate), or built from artificial materials, such as metals, ceramics, or polyester polymers. Cells used for transplants and bioartificial tissues are almost always autogeneic (self) to avoid rejection by the patients immune system. The use of allogeneic (nonself) cells carries a high risk of immune rejection and therefore requires tissue matching between donor and recipient and involves the administration of immunosuppressive drugs.

A variety of autogeneic and allogeneic cell and bioartificial tissue transplantations have been performed. Examples of autogeneic transplants using differentiated cells include blood transfusion with frozen stores of the patients own blood and repair of the articular cartilage of the knee with the patients own articular chondrocytes (cartilage cells) that have been expanded in vitro (amplified in number using cell culture techniques in a laboratory). An example of a tissue that has been generated for autogeneic transplant is the human mandible (lower jaw). Functional bioartificial mandibles are made by seeding autogeneic bone marrow cells onto a titanium mesh scaffold loaded with bovine bone matrix, a type of extracellular matrix that has proved valuable in regenerative medicine for its ability to promote cell adhesion and proliferation in transplantable bone tissues. Functional bioartificial bladders also have been successfully implanted into patients. Bioartificial bladders are made by seeding a biodegradable polyester scaffold with autogeneic urinary epithelial cells and smooth muscle cells.

Another example of a tissue used successfully in an autogeneic transplant is a bioartificial bronchus, which was generated to replace damaged tissue in a patient affected by tuberculosis. The bioartificial bronchus was constructed from an ECM scaffold of a section of bronchial tissue taken from a donor cadaver. Differentiated epithelial cells isolated from the patient and chondrocytes derived from mesenchymal stem cells collected from the patients bone marrow were seeded onto the scaffold.

There are few clinical examples of allogeneic cell and bioartificial tissue transplants. The two most common allogeneic transplants are blood-group-matched blood transfusion and bone marrow transplant. Allogeneic bone marrow transplants are often performed following high-dose chemotherapy, which is used to destroy all the cells in the hematopoietic system in order to ensure that all cancer-causing cells are killed. (The hematopoietic system is contained within the bone marrow and is responsible for generating all the cells of the blood and immune system.) This type of bone marrow transplant is associated with a high risk of graft-versus-host disease, in which the donor marrow cells attack the recipients tissues. Another type of allogeneic transplant involves the islets of Langerhans, which contain the insulin-producing cells of the body. This type of tissue can be transplanted from cadavers to patients with diabetes mellitus, but recipients require immunosuppression therapy to survive.

Cell transplant experiments with paralyzed mice, pigs, and nonhuman primates demonstrated that Schwann cells (the myelin-producing cells that insulate nerve axons) injected into acutely injured spinal cord tissue could restore about 70 percent of the tissues functional capacity, thereby partially reversing paralysis.

embryonic stem cell: scientists conducting research on embryonic stem cellsMauricio LimaAFP/Getty ImagesStudies on experimental animals are aimed at understanding ways in which autogeneic or allogeneic adult stem cells can be used to regenerate damaged cardiovascular, neural, and musculoskeletal tissues in humans. Among adult stem cells that have shown promise in this area are satellite cells, which occur in skeletal muscle fibres in animals and humans. When injected into mice affected by dystrophy, a condition characterized by the progressive degeneration of muscle tissue, satellite cells stimulate the regeneration of normal muscle fibres. Ulcerative colitis in mice was treated successfully with intestinal organoids (organlike tissues) derived from adult stem cells of the large intestine. When introduced into the colon, the organoids attached to damaged tissue and generated a normal-appearing intestinal lining.

In many cases, however, adult stem cells such as satellite cells have not been easily harvested from their native tissues, and they have been difficult to culture in the laboratory. In contrast, embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can be harvested once and cultured indefinitely. Moreover, ESCs are pluripotent, meaning that they can be directed to differentiate into any cell type, which makes them an ideal cell source for regenerative medicine.

Studies of animal ESC derivatives have demonstrated that these cells are capable of regenerating tissues of the central nervous system, heart, skeletal muscle, and pancreas. Derivatives of human ESCs used in animal models have produced similar results. For example, cardiac stem cells from heart-failure patients were engineered to express a protein (Pim-1) that promotes cell survival and proliferation. When these cells were injected into mice that had experienced myocardial infarction (heart attack), the cells were found to enhance the repair of injured heart muscle tissue. Likewise, heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) derived from human ESCs improved the function of injured heart muscle tissue in guinea pigs.

Derivatives of human ESCs are likely to produce similar results in humans, although these cells have not been used clinically and could be subject to immune rejection by recipients. The question of immune rejection was bypassed by the discovery in 2007 that adult somatic cells (e.g., skin and liver cells) can be converted to ESCs. This is accomplished by transfecting (infecting) the adult cells with viral vectors carrying genes that encode transcription factor proteins capable of reprogramming the adult cells into pluripotent stem cells. Examples of these factors include Oct-4 (octamer 4), Sox-2 (sex-determining region Y box 2), Klf-4 (Kruppel-like factor 4), and Nanog. Reprogrammed adult cells, known as induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, are potential autogeneic sources for cell transplantation and bioartificial tissue construction. Such cells have since been created from the skin cells of patients suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer disease and have been used as human models for the exploration of disease mechanisms and the screening of potential new drugs. In one such model, neurons derived from human iPS cells were shown to promote recovery of stroke-damaged brain tissue in mice and rats, and, in another, cardiomyocytes derived from human iPS cells successfully integrated into damaged heart tissue following their injection into rat hearts. These successes indicated that iPS cells could serve as a cell source for tissue regeneration or bioartificial tissue construction.

Scaffolds and soluble factors, such as proteins and small molecules, have been used to induce tissue repair by undamaged cells at the site of injury. These agents protect resident fibroblasts and adult stem cells and stimulate the migration of these cells into damaged areas, where they proliferate to form new tissue. The ECMs of pig small intestine submucosa, pig and human dermis, and different types of biomimetic scaffolds are used clinically for the repair of hernias, fistulas (abnormal ducts or passageways between organs), and burns.

See the article here:
regenerative medicine | Britannica.com

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Although there are a number of hair loss conditions that can affect men, the most common is Male Pattern Baldness (MPB). Other names for this condition are androgenetic alopecia and genetic hair loss. This page will concentrate primarily on this condition but will also make reference to the less widespread hair loss conditions that could be affecting you, with links to more informative pages.

Male Pattern Baldness is a genetic condition that can be passed down from either side of the family tree. So if your Father has a perfectly thick head of hair, dont think you are definitely safe (although you could be!). It is a condition caused by a bi-product of testosterone named Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. DHT attaches to the hair follicles and causes them to shrink over time, which causes the hair to become thinner and thinner until some men become totally bald on the top of the head.

This is a very good question, and although the answer might seem obvious, many men do not identify their hair loss until it has become fairly advanced, which could be too late to achieve a full recovery. The reasons men do not identify their own hair loss are usually down to simple denial, or because the process is very slow and it is something that they simply might not notice. At the opposite end of the scale, many men worry about hair loss when they have no reason to worry.

The best ways to know if you are losing your hair are:

MPB is in fact easy to identify even for somebody with no clinical experience as it only affects hair on the top of the scalp and not the sides, causing a horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair loss. There are a number of different common patterns of hair loss a receding hairline, a thinning crown, or general thinning spread over the top area of the head. You can read more about these below. MPB never affects the sides or back of the hair.

There are a number of options available for treating Male Pattern Baldness, including clinically proven medications, laser devices and hair restoration surgery. There are also numerous products out there that have no clinical efficacy, so it is easy to waste time and money whilst your hair continues to shed. It is therefore very important that you carry out the necessary research before deciding how you are going to treat your hair loss. The good news is that unless you have lost all or most of your hair, there is a solution out there for you, whether it be a medical solution, a surgical one, or a combination of the two.

Our comprehensive hair loss treatment guide walks you through all the most effective options available for treating hair loss and also gives you an in-depth look at the products that may not be worth using.

hair loss treatment guide

This depends on a number of factors. Firstly, the condition causing your hair loss if you have a temporary hair loss condition (which is unusual in men) then the answer may be no. Please refer to our list of other hair loss conditions below if your problem doesnt appear to be MPB.

Assuming your condition is Male Pattern Baldness, the extent of your eventual hair loss really depends. Those men who have a very early or aggressive onset of MPB are more likely to lose their hair more extensively or at a faster rate, which could result in baldness at an early age. We see men who begin to lose their hair at 18 years old (or sometimes earlier). These men will of course be the ones most likely to reach eventual baldness, sometimes at a fairly early age (mid-twenties). Whereas some men only begin to see signs of thinning in their mid-to-late twenties, or even later. These men are much less likely to experience eventual baldness and may just have thin hair by the time they reach old age.

Read more here:
Male Hair Loss All You Need To Know - The Belgravia Centre

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Cancer i, also known as a malignant tumor or malignant neoplasm, is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body.[1][2] Not all tumors are cancerous; benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body.[2] Possible signs and symptoms include: a new lump, abnormal bleeding, a prolonged cough, unexplained weight loss, and a change in bowel movements among others.[3] While these symptoms may indicate cancer, they may also occur due to other issues.[3] There are over 100 different known cancers that affect humans.[2]

Tobacco use is the cause of about 22% of cancer deaths.[1] Another 10% is due to obesity, a poor diet, lack of physical activity, and consumption of ethanol (alcohol).[1] Other factors include certain infections, exposure to ionizing radiation, and environmental pollutants.[4] In the developing world nearly 20% of cancers are due to infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human papillomavirus.[1] These factors act, at least partly, by changing the genes of a cell.[5] Typically many such genetic changes are required before cancer develops.[5] Approximately 510% of cancers are due to genetic defects inherited from a person's parents.[6] Cancer can be detected by certain signs and symptoms or screening tests.[1] It is then typically further investigated by medical imaging and confirmed by biopsy.[7]

Many cancers can be prevented by not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, not drinking too much alcohol, eating plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, being vaccinated against certain infectious diseases, not eating too much red meat, and avoiding too much exposure to sunlight.[8][9] Early detection through screening is useful for cervical and colorectal cancer.[10] The benefits of screening in breast cancer are controversial.[10][11] Cancer is often treated with some combination of radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.[1][12] Pain and symptom management are an important part of care. Palliative care is particularly important in those with advanced disease.[1] The chance of survival depends on the type of cancer and extent of disease at the start of treatment.[5] In children under 15 at diagnosis the five year survival rate in the developed world is on average 80%.[13] For cancer in the United States the average five year survival rate is 66%.[14]

In 2012 about 14.1 million new cases of cancer occurred globally (not including skin cancer other than melanoma).[5] It caused about 8.2 million deaths or 14.6% of all human deaths.[5][15] The most common types of cancer in males are lung cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, and stomach cancer, and in females, the most common types are breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and cervical cancer.[5] If skin cancer other than melanoma were included in total new cancers each year it would account for around 40% of cases.[16][17] In children, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and brain tumors are most common except in Africa where non-Hodgkin lymphoma occurs more often.[13] In 2012, about 165,000 children under 15 years of age were diagnosed with cancer. The risk of cancer increases significantly with age and many cancers occur more commonly in developed countries.[5] Rates are increasing as more people live to an old age and as lifestyle changes occur in the developing world.[18] The financial costs of cancer have been estimated at $1.16 trillion US dollars per year as of 2010.[19]

Cancers are a large family of diseases that involve abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body.[1][2] They form a subset of neoplasms. A neoplasm or tumor is a group of cells that have undergone unregulated growth, and will often form a mass or lump, but may be distributed diffusely.[20][21]

Six characteristics of cancer have been proposed:

The progression from normal cells to cells that can form a discernible mass to outright cancer involves multiple steps known as malignant progression.[22][23]

When cancer begins, it invariably produces no symptoms. Signs and symptoms only appear as the mass continues to grow or ulcerates. The findings that result depend on the type and location of the cancer. Few symptoms are specific, with many of them also frequently occurring in individuals who have other conditions. Cancer is the new "great imitator". Thus, it is not uncommon for people diagnosed with cancer to have been treated for other diseases, which were assumed to be causing their symptoms.[24]

Local symptoms may occur due to the mass of the tumor or its ulceration. For example, mass effects from lung cancer can cause blockage of the bronchus resulting in cough or pneumonia; esophageal cancer can cause narrowing of the esophagus, making it difficult or painful to swallow; and colorectal cancer may lead to narrowing or blockages in the bowel, resulting in changes in bowel habits. Masses in breasts or testicles may be easily felt. Ulceration can cause bleeding that, if it occurs in the lung, will lead to coughing up blood, in the bowels to anemia or rectal bleeding, in the bladder to blood in the urine, and in the uterus to vaginal bleeding. Although localized pain may occur in advanced cancer, the initial swelling is usually painless. Some cancers can cause a buildup of fluid within the chest or abdomen.[24]

General symptoms occur due to distant effects of the cancer that are not related to direct or metastatic spread. These may include: unintentional weight loss, fever, being excessively tired, and changes to the skin.[25]Hodgkin disease, leukemias, and cancers of the liver or kidney can cause a persistent fever of unknown origin.[24]

Read more:
Cancer - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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Genetic testing can provide information about a persons genes and chromosomes. Available types of testing include:

Newborn screening is used just after birth to identify genetic disorders that can be treated early in life. Millions of babies are tested each year in the United States. All states currently test infants for phenylketonuria (a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disability if left untreated) and congenital hypothyroidism (a disorder of the thyroid gland). Most states also test for other genetic disorders.

Diagnostic testing is used to identify or rule out a specific genetic or chromosomal condition. In many cases, genetic testing is used to confirm a diagnosis when a particular condition is suspected based on physical signs and symptoms. Diagnostic testing can be performed before birth or at any time during a persons life, but is not available for all genes or all genetic conditions. The results of a diagnostic test can influence a persons choices about health care and the management of the disorder.

Carrier testing is used to identify people who carry one copy of a gene mutation that, when present in two copies, causes a genetic disorder. This type of testing is offered to individuals who have a family history of a genetic disorder and to people in certain ethnic groups with an increased risk of specific genetic conditions. If both parents are tested, the test can provide information about a couples risk of having a child with a genetic condition.

Prenatal testing is used to detect changes in a fetuss genes or chromosomes before birth. This type of testing is offered during pregnancy if there is an increased risk that the baby will have a genetic or chromosomal disorder. In some cases, prenatal testing can lessen a couples uncertainty or help them make decisions about a pregnancy. It cannot identify all possible inherited disorders and birth defects, however.

Preimplantation testing, also called preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), is a specialized technique that can reduce the risk of having a child with a particular genetic or chromosomal disorder. It is used to detect genetic changes in embryos that were created using assisted reproductive techniques such as in-vitro fertilization. In-vitro fertilization involves removing egg cells from a womans ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm cells outside the body. To perform preimplantation testing, a small number of cells are taken from these embryos and tested for certain genetic changes. Only embryos without these changes are implanted in the uterus to initiate a pregnancy.

Predictive and presymptomatic types of testing are used to detect gene mutations associated with disorders that appear after birth, often later in life. These tests can be helpful to people who have a family member with a genetic disorder, but who have no features of the disorder themselves at the time of testing. Predictive testing can identify mutations that increase a persons risk of developing disorders with a genetic basis, such as certain types of cancer. Presymptomatic testing can determine whether a person will develop a genetic disorder, such as hereditary hemochromatosis (an iron overload disorder), before any signs or symptoms appear. The results of predictive and presymptomatic testing can provide information about a persons risk of developing a specific disorder and help with making decisions about medical care.

Forensic testing uses DNA sequences to identify an individual for legal purposes. Unlike the tests described above, forensic testing is not used to detect gene mutations associated with disease. This type of testing can identify crime or catastrophe victims, rule out or implicate a crime suspect, or establish biological relationships between people (for example, paternity).

A Brief Primer on Genetic Testing, which outlines the different kinds of genetic tests, is available from the National Human Genome Research Institute.

Educational resources related to patient genetic testing/carrier screening are available from GeneEd. Johns Hopkins Medicine provides additional information about genetic carrier screening.

See the article here:
Types of Genetic Testing - Genetics Home Reference

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Introduction: What are stem cells, and why are they important? What are the unique properties of all stem cells? What are embryonic stem cells? What are adult stem cells? What are the similarities and differences between embryonic and adult stem cells? What are induced pluripotent stem cells? What are the potential uses of human stem cells and the obstacles that must be overcome before these potential uses will be realized? Where can I get more information?

Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body during early life and growth. In addition, in many tissues they serve as a sort of internal repair system, dividing essentially without limit to replenish other cells as long as the person or animal is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each new cell has the potential either to remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell.

Stem cells are distinguished from other cell types by two important characteristics. First, they are unspecialized cells capable of renewing themselves through cell division, sometimes after long periods of inactivity. Second, under certain physiologic or experimental conditions, they can be induced to become tissue- or organ-specific cells with special functions. In some organs, such as the gut and bone marrow, stem cells regularly divide to repair and replace worn out or damaged tissues. In other organs, however, such as the pancreas and the heart, stem cells only divide under special conditions.

Until recently, scientists primarily worked with two kinds of stem cells from animals and humans: embryonic stem cells and non-embryonic "somatic" or "adult" stem cells. The functions and characteristics of these cells will be explained in this document. Scientists discovered ways to derive embryonic stem cells from early mouse embryos more than 30 years ago, in 1981. The detailed study of the biology of mouse stem cells led to the discovery, in 1998, of a method to derive stem cells from human embryos and grow the cells in the laboratory. These cells are called human embryonic stem cells. The embryos used in these studies were created for reproductive purposes through in vitro fertilization procedures. When they were no longer needed for that purpose, they were donated for research with the informed consent of the donor. In 2006, researchers made another breakthrough by identifying conditions that would allow some specialized adult cells to be "reprogrammed" genetically to assume a stem cell-like state. This new type of stem cell, called induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), will be discussed in a later section of this document.

Stem cells are important for living organisms for many reasons. In the 3- to 5-day-old embryo, called a blastocyst, the inner cells give rise to the entire body of the organism, including all of the many specialized cell types and organs such as the heart, lungs, skin, sperm, eggs and other tissues. In some adult tissues, such as bone marrow, muscle, and brain, discrete populations of adult stem cells generate replacements for cells that are lost through normal wear and tear, injury, or disease.

Given their unique regenerative abilities, stem cells offer new potentials for treating diseases such as diabetes, and heart disease. However, much work remains to be done in the laboratory and the clinic to understand how to use these cells for cell-based therapies to treat disease, which is also referred to as regenerative or reparative medicine.

Laboratory studies of stem cells enable scientists to learn about the cells essential properties and what makes them different from specialized cell types. Scientists are already using stem cells in the laboratory to screen new drugs and to develop model systems to study normal growth and identify the causes of birth defects.

Research on stem cells continues to advance knowledge about how an organism develops from a single cell and how healthy cells replace damaged cells in adult organisms. Stem cell research is one of the most fascinating areas of contemporary biology, but, as with many expanding fields of scientific inquiry, research on stem cells raises scientific questions as rapidly as it generates new discoveries.

I.Introduction|Next

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Stem Cell Basics: Introduction [Stem Cell Information]

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NEW YORK, June 23, 2015 /PRNewswire/ --

This is a comprehensive account of the market size, segmentation, key players, SWOT analysis, influential technologies, and business and economic environments. The report is supported by over 270 tables & figures over 254 pages. The personalized medicine (global) market is presented as follows:

By Company (e.g., 23andMe, AFFYMETRIX, ATOSSA GENETICS, NODALITY, deCode /Amgen, CELERA, MYRIAD) By Geography (US, UK, EU) By Segment (Targeted therapeutics, Companion Diagnostics, Esoteric tests, Esoteric lab services) By Sub-market (Companion diagnostics & therapeutic, nutrition & wellness, medical technology, pharmacogenomics, consumer genomics)

A wealth of financial data & business strategy information is provided including:

Company financials, sales & revenue figures Business Model Strategies for Diagnostic, Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies Business Model Strategies for Providers. Provider Systems and Academic Medical Centres Business Model Strategies for Payers & Governments Private and Public Funding and Personalized Medicine Reimbursement Revisions to Current Payment Systems and intellectual property How to Gain Market Penetration in the EU Cost-effectiveness and Business Value of Personalized Medicine Consumer genomics and POC market Therapeutics and Companion Diagnostics (e.g., BRAC Analysis, Oncotype Dx , KRAS Mutations) Comprehensive account of company product portfolios & kits

SWOT, Economic & Regulatory Environment specifics include:

Key strengths, weaknesses and threats influencing leading player position within the market Technologies driving the market (e.g., New-Generation Sequencing Technologies, Ultra-High Throughput Sequencing) Top fastest growing market segments and emerging opportunities Top pharmaceutical companies within the IPM by market share and revenue Comprehensive product portfolios, R&D activity and pipeline therapeutics M&A activity and future strategies of top personalized medicine pharmacos Personalized Medicine Regulation (USA, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy) CE-marked Personalized Medicine/Diagnostic Tests FDA Advances in Personalized Medicine Regulation

This report highlights a number of significant pharmacos and gives details of their operations, products, financials and business strategy.

23andMe Affymetrix Astex Pharmaceuticals Atossa Genetics CuraGen Celera Corporation (Quest Diagnostics) Celldex Therapeutics deCode Genetics (Amgen) Illumina Genelex Myriad Nodality Qiagen What you will gain:

An in-depth understanding of the global personalized medicine market and it's environment Current market facts, figures and product lines of key players in the industry Emerging trends in key markets such as the US, UK, Germany and France Knowledge of how the personalized medicine market will integrate into the global healthcare market Technical insights into new generation sequencing technologies and ultra-high throughput sequencing Updates on bioinformatics, high throughput systems, genetic analysis kits, companion diagnostics and future technologies FDA approved pharmacogenetic tests and recognized biomarkers Information on key government and regulatory policies Strategies on how to adapt and restructure current business models to this industry

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Personalized Medicine, Targeted Therapeutics and Companion ...

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Bacteria are the unicellular organisms and cannot be seen with naked eye. There is no particular method of cell division, they simply divide by binary fission in which cell divides into two daughter cells. They do not have proper nucleus within the cell but the genetic material is attached to the cell membrane in an irregular form. They are found everywhere like top of the mountains, rivers, on land and in ice. Bacteria have the property of living in extreme weathers like extreme cold and extreme heat. They are able to live long because they become inactive for a long period of time.

Bacteria play an important role in the environment: Decomposition of Dead/Complex Organic Matter:

Ever imagined the fate of nature with dead matter of animals/plants lying around? Bacteria play a very crucial role of silently getting the nature rid of the dead matter through the decomposition of dead organic matter by the micobes. Bacteria use them as a source of nutrients, and in turn help in recycling the organic compounds trapped in the dead matter. Through this process, other organisms also get benefited, who can use the simpler forms of organic compounds/nutrients released from the dead matter by various bacteria.

Bioremediation by bacteria Bioremediation refers to the process of depletion/degradation of toxic compounds present in the natural environment by living organisms. Bacteria are one of the key players in Bioremediation. For example, oil spills due to oil digging operations or accidents on oil transport channels in the ocean or on the soil, is highly determinant to the healthy environment. Bacteria like Pseudomonas have been well known for the degradation of oil spills on oceans/soils.

Similarly, Contamination of heavy metals in the environment is a major global concern because of their toxicity and

threat to human life and environment. Bacteria like Alcaligenes faecalis (Arsenic),Pseudomonas fluorescens and Enterobacter clocae (Chromium) are well known for heavy metal uptake/compound metabolism. Waste Water Treatment Owing to their characteristics of degrading harmful chemicals and pollutants, bacteria naturally (as well as deliberately used by industries), help in treatment of waste water.

Image source: biologia.laguia2000.com

More here:
Role of Bacteria in Environment - Biotechnology Forums

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Empowered by genetic information, Vanderbilt aims to reinvent health care. by Bill Snyder and Dagny Stuart

The iconic Norman Rockwell painting of a family doctor checking the heart of a young patients doll may seem quaint, but its far from old-fashioned. On the contrary, personalized medicine is bringing the family doctor back and the family nurse, and the family pharmacist, and a whole team of family health care providers. Only this time, they will be empowered by 21st-century tools like genomics, informatics and high-tech imaging.

Ailments will be diagnosed more quickly and accuratelyor prevented before they can occur. By selecting drugs that match each patients unique genetic readout or by tweaking molecular pathways instead of blasting away like a shotgun, treatments will be more effective and will have fewer side effects.

After having gone through a period where blockbuster drugs and massive screening were the norm, we are actually moving back to a place where were trying to tailor care to the individual, says Dr. Jeff Balser, Vanderbilt Universitys vice chancellor for health affairs and dean of the School of Medicine.

I try to think of this as not getting more high-tech and therefore more distant from the patient, Balser says. But through technology were becoming more familiar with our patients as individuals and, along with that, always remembering to be personableNorman Rockwell with a DNA sequencer.

In 2010 Vanderbilt University Medical Center launched two major personalized medicine initiatives to advance cancer treatment and to individualize and improve drug therapy. Already this approach is showing promise.

Patients scheduled for cardiac or orthopedic procedures are being tested in advance for genetic variations that can affect their response to common blood thinners. Based on the test results, their doctors may adjust the dose or order a different drug entirely.

Similarly, by reading the genetic fingerprints of tumors removed from patients with certain forms of cancer, doctors can choose targeted drugs that are most likely to work.

Using genetic information to guide drug therapy is just the beginning. In the near future, genomicsthe science of reading and interpreting the DNA sequencewill help Vanderbilt physicians select the best tests and procedures for their patients. Eventually, genetics will help guide efforts to prevent disease and maintain good health.

Personalized medicine is more than genetics, of course. Social, family and behavioral factors, as well as environmental and economic circumstances, also have a profound impact on health. Those things are just as important in tailoring care to the individual as their genetic background, says Balser. Its almost like genomic medicine is what were using to learn how to individualize medicine, but then we can apply it to a broader set of data and circumstances.

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The Promise of Personalized Medicine - Vanderbilt Magazine

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