Negative Regulation of RNA Interference in Caenorhabditis Elegans


Book Description

RNA interference (RNAi) was formally described in Caenorhabditis elegans ( C. elegans ) as the process by which long double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) post-transcriptionally induces potent silencing of an endogenous gene that is homologous to the trigger. We now understand RNAi-related silencing mechanisms to function in endogenous processes throughout phylogeny. The inability of RNAi to target specific genes and tissues has raised questions about the molecular and evolutionary basis for these limitations. This dissertation describes an investigation into genes whose wild-type function is to restrict the potency of exogenous RNAi in C. elegans. Genetically screening for mutants displaying an enhanced response to exogenous dsRNAs, we isolated mutations in genes encoding known interactors of the central player of small-RNA-mediated pathways--the endoribonuclease Dicer--which all exhibit pleiotropic phenotypes such as sterility. We focused on non-sterile mutants from the screen, with the expectation that they would outline a novel mechanism for the negative regulation of RNAi. The non-sterile mutants define at least five genes.




The Role of Heat Shock Proteins in Reproductive System Development and Function


Book Description

Due to the paucity of reviews on this subject, this volume aims to be timely and promote additional basic and translational research on these proteins in reproductive system development and function within the fields of Anatomy, Embryology and Cell Biology. The breadth of the work being conducted within Reproduction is exemplified by the contributors to this series who will provide reviews on: Grp78 roles in female reproduction, small heat shock proteins/co-chaperones as players in uterine smooth muscle function, the role of heat shock proteins in sperm function and maternal contribution to oogenesis and early embryogenesis, heat shock factors and testes development, HSP90 in ovarian biology and pathology, and the role of HSP70 in regulation of autophagy in pregnancy and parturition.




The Big Book on Small Heat Shock Proteins


Book Description

Based upon a workshop entitled “The Small HSP World” held in Québec 2-5 October 2014. Twenty-five scientists provided chapters for the book. The chapters are from the best scientists currently working in this field. These colleagues include Arrigo, Benesch, Benjamin, Buchner-Haslbeck-Weinkauf, Benndorf, Boelens, Carra, Chang, Currie, Ecroyd, Emanuelsson, Fu, Garrido, Golenhofen, Gusev, Hightower, Kampinga, Lavoie, MacRae, Quinlan, Tanguay, Vierling, Vigh, Weeks and Wu. Briefly, the book starts with the structure of small heat shock proteins, moving to their functions and finishing with their involvement in diseases. Although this is quite broad, the structural aspect will be the unifying theme of the book.




Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs) and Innate Immunity


Book Description

Overall recent research on TLRs has led to tremendous increase in our understanding of early steps in pathogen recognition and will presumably lead to potent TLR targeting therapeutics in the future. This book reviews and highlights our recent understanding on the function and ligands of TLRs as well as their role in autoimmunity, dendritic cell activation and target structures for therapeutic intervention.




Mechanisms of Eukaryotic DNA Recombination


Book Description

Mechanisms of Eukaryotic DNA Recombination is a collection of papers that discusses advances in eukaryotic genetic recombination. Papers address issues in eukaryotic genetic recombination, particularly DNA integration in mammalian genomes, genetic recombination in Drosophila or Caenorhabditis; the manipulation of the mouse genome; genome organization; and genetic recombination in protozoa. One paper discusses chromatid interactions during intrachromosomal recombination in mammalian cells, namely, intrachromatid and sister chromatid. Another paper analyzes the implication for chromosomal recombination and gene targeting; results on extrachromosomal recombination show that circles are inefficient substrates for recombination even if only one of two substrates in an intermolecular reaction is circular. One author discusses the genetics and molecular biology of recombination, citing the work of Watson and Crick, stating that crossing-over occurs between genes (not within them). He also explains that the formation and resolution of recombination intermediaries depend on enzyme or other proteins. This book will prove invaluable to cellular biologists, microbiologists, and researchers engaged in genetics and general biology.




Genome Stability


Book Description

Genome Stability: From Virus to Human Application, Second Edition, a volume in the Translational Epigenetics series, explores how various species maintain genome stability and genome diversification in response to environmental factors. Here, across thirty-eight chapters, leading researchers provide a deep analysis of genome stability in DNA/RNA viruses, prokaryotes, single cell eukaryotes, lower multicellular eukaryotes, and mammals, examining how epigenetic factors contribute to genome stability and how these species pass memories of encounters to progeny. Topics also include major DNA repair mechanisms, the role of chromatin in genome stability, human diseases associated with genome instability, and genome stability in response to aging. This second edition has been fully revised to address evolving research trends, including CRISPRs/Cas9 genome editing; conventional versus transgenic genome instability; breeding and genetic diseases associated with abnormal DNA repair; RNA and extrachromosomal DNA; cloning, stem cells, and embryo development; programmed genome instability; and conserved and divergent features of repair. This volume is an essential resource for geneticists, epigeneticists, and molecular biologists who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of this rapidly expanding field, and can also be of great use to advanced students who are looking to gain additional expertise in genome stability. A deep analysis of genome stability research from various kingdoms, including epigenetics and transgenerational effects Provides comprehensive coverage of mechanisms utilized by different organisms to maintain genomic stability Contains applications of genome instability research and outcomes for human disease Features all-new chapters on evolving areas of genome stability research, including CRISPRs/Cas9 genome editing, RNA and extrachromosomal DNA, programmed genome instability, and conserved and divergent features of repair




Aneurysms-Osteoarthritis Syndrome


Book Description

Aneurysms-Osteoarthritis Syndrome: SMAD3 Gene Mutations is a first-of-its-kind compilation of the genetic discovery, research, and care associated with AOS. With the field of genetically triggered aortopathies growing, this important reference will compile the newest discoveries in this field, allowing cardiologists, cardio-thoracic surgeons, clinical geneticists, vascular surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and researchers to gain the knowledge they need without having to gather the data from various sources. Coverage includes genotype and phenotype correlations, the functional role of SMAD3, and insights into the role of TGFbeta signaling in aortic disease. The book will increase knowledge about AOS, providing awareness and better patient care for this aggressive disease. Covers Aneurysms-Osteoarthritis Syndrome, from genetic discovery to patient care Contains clinical management guidance on optimal cardiovascular treatments and surgery Explains the autosomal dominant syndromes caused by mutations in the SMAD3 gene Identifies the key features of this syndrome, including arterial aneurysms and tortuosity, early onset arthritis, and mild craniofacial features




Current Topics in Membranes


Book Description

Current Topics in Membranes




Encyclopedia of Behavioral Neuroscience


Book Description

Behavioral Neuroscientists study the behavior of animals and humans and the neurobiological and physiological processes that control it. Behavior is the ultimate function of the nervous system, and the study of it is very multidisciplinary. Disorders of behavior in humans touch millions of people’s lives significantly, and it is of paramount importance to understand pathological conditions such as addictions, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, autism among others, in order to be able to develop new treatment possibilities. Encyclopedia of Behavioral Neuroscience is the first and only multi-volume reference to comprehensively cover the foundation knowledge in the field. This three volume work is edited by world renowned behavioral neuroscientists George F. Koob, The Scripps Research Institute, Michel Le Moal, Université Bordeaux, and Richard F. Thompson, University of Southern California and written by a premier selection of the leading scientists in their respective fields. Each section is edited by a specialist in the relevant area. The important research in all areas of Behavioral Neuroscience is covered in a total of 210 chapters on topics ranging from neuroethology and learning and memory, to behavioral disorders and psychiatric diseases. The only comprehensive Encyclopedia of Behavioral Neuroscience on the market Addresses all recent advances in the field Written and edited by an international group of leading researchers, truly representative of the behavioral neuroscience community Includes many entries on the advances in our knowledge of the neurobiological basis of complex behavioral, psychiatric, and neurological disorders Richly illustrated in full color Extensively cross referenced to serve as the go-to reference for students and researchers alike The online version features full searching, navigation, and linking functionality An essential resource for libraries serving neuroscientists, psychologists, neuropharmacologists, and psychiatrists