Transforming growth factor-Beta: multiple actions and potential clinical applications

Article Abstract:

The excitement in research on transforming growth factor-B (TGF-B) stems from its multiple actions on most types of cell and its possible therapeutic use in common clinical conditions for which there are no adequate pharmacologic agents. TGF-B is a very stable peptide consisting of two identical chains, each containing 112 amino acids. It is also highly plesotropic and can stimulate proliferation in some cells, especially in connective tissues, and can regulate other processes having little to do with cell division. The real importance of TGF-B is as a mediator of normal cellular physiology, particularly during tissue response to injury and normal formation of tissues. The actions of TGF-B in inflammation and repair of soft tissue is summarized, as is its use in the formation of bone and cartilage, and in control of the immune system. Also discussed is its potential therapeutic value in these areas, the disease states in which the physiology of TGF-B might be perturbed and the recent advances of the role of TGF-B in the heart and in carcinogenesis.

Research, United States. National Institutes of Health, Transforming growth factors, Embryology, Human, Human embryology

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High-density lipoproteins as an emerging therapeutic target for atherosclerosis

Article Abstract:

The identification of a group of people in a small Italian town who had very low HDL levels but also no sign of cardiovascular disease has resulted in a treatment that may actually reduce the size of the plaques inside coronary arteries that cause most heart attacks. The treatment is called apoA-I Milano, and weekly intravenous infusions of this substance caused coronary plaques to decrease. ApoA-I Milano may remove cholesterol from coronary plaques, making them smaller.

Care and treatment, Editorial, High density lipoproteins, Atherosclerotic plaque

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Physiological Neuroimaging: Emerging Clinical Applications

Article Abstract:

CT and MRI imaging generally only show anatomical structure but there are other imaging techniques that can visualize a physiological process such as blood flow or oxygen uptake by the brain. These techniques include PET and SPECT imaging, stable xenon computed tomography, and transcranial Doppler ultrasound.

Analysis, Brain, Diagnostic imaging

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