The riveting true story of John and Aileen Crowley's race to find a cure for Pompe disease that inspired the movie Extraordinary Measures

With three beautiful children, a new house, and financial security, John and Aileen Crowley were on top of the world--until their two youngest children, fifteen-month-old Megan and five-month-old Patrick, were diagnosed with Pompe disease and given only months to live. Refusing to accept a death sentence, John quit his financial consultant job and invested his life savings in a biotechnology start-up to research the disease and find a cure. Battling scientific setbacks, conflict of interest accusations, and business troubles, John and Aileen would be tested to their limits as they valiantly fought, and succeeded, in finding revolutionary new treatment for the disease--offering hope to Megan, Patrick, and the many children and families affected by Pompe disease around the world.

The inspiration for the captivating film Extraordinary Measures, starring Brendan Fraser and Harrison Ford, The Cure is a remarkable true story of cutting-edge science, business acumen and daring, and one family's indomitable spirit.

Congenital Heart Defects, or CHDs, are the most frequently occurring birth defect. In the US alone, over 25,000 babies are born each year with some form of CHD. In the last 20 years, medical advances and new surgical procedures have dramatically decreased the mortality rate of these abnormalities and led to a better understanding and treatment of CHDs in adults. This definitive work on the subject covers all aspects of CHD, under the editorship of a leading geneticist, cardiologist, and public health physician, and features contributions from 60 major authorities in the field. Coverage includes a broad range of topics on the development, epidemiology, genetics, diagnosis, management, prevention, and public health issues of CHDs. This book will be of interest to geneticists, epidemiologists, cardiologists, pediatricians, graduate students, researchers, and others interested in the treatment of individuals with CHDs.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, an inherited and progressive muscle wasting disease, is one of the most common single gene disorders found in the developed world. In this fourth edition of the classic monograph on the topic, Alan Emery and Francesco Muntoni are joined by Rosaline Quinlivan, Consultant in Neuromuscular Disorders, to provide a thorough update on all aspects of the disorder. Recent understanding of the nature of the genetic defect responsible for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and isolation of the protein dystrophin has led to the development of new theories for the disease's pathogenesis. This new edition incorporates these advances from the field of molecular biology, and describes the resultant opportunities for screening, prenatal diagnosis, genetic counselling and from recent pioneering work with anti-sense oligonucleotides, the possibility of effective RNA therapy. Although there is still no cure for the disorder, there have been significant developments concerning the gene basis, publication of standards of care guidelines, and improvements in management leading to significantly longer survival, particularly with cardio-pulmonary care. The authors also investigate other forms of pharmacological, cellular and gene therapies. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy will be essential reading not only for scientists and clinicians, but will also appeal to therapists and other professionals involved in the care of patients with muscular dystrophy.

The technical advances in molecular biology have endowed us with a wealth of knowledge, which has allowed us to identify the cause of diseases not only at a single gene level but at a greater magnitude, where a substitution or deletion of a single base pair can be identified. Our present task is to establish a clear link between phenotype and nucleotide sequence. Obviously, a gene is no longer an imaginary entity. Recent discoveries in a number of bewildering traits, whose inheritance do not follow simple mendelian rules, have caused much amazement. For example, fragile X-syndrome, spine and bulbar muscular atrophy and myotic dystrophy arise from "triples repeat mutation" and amplification in future generations. Genetic diseases which are inherited, can now be diagnosed prenatally; an idea that was once inconceivable.
The aim of the second volume, entitled Morbid Anatomy of the Genome, is to reflect on the importance of molecular genetics in modern medicine. The field has expanded so as to warrant a volume dedicated exclusively toward understanding those who wish to know the cause, detection and in turn treatment of such diseases. In this volume, I have commissioned several scientists to contribute 12 chapters. A chapter describing a special role of molecular genetics in combating genetic diseases through gene therapy has also been included, while chapter 13 is a commentary.
A complete account of all diseases whose genetic basis is well established would be a herculean task and is not within the scope of a single volume format. Therefore a few specific topics have been chosen which may be of the greatest interest to scientists and clinicians. The purpose of this issue is to keep abreast of the latest developments in a select group of genetic diseases.

Moebius syndrome is a rare congenital neurological disorder affecting 2 to 20 out of every 1,000,000 newborns. Patients suffer from total facial paralysis and cannot close their eyes or move them from side to side. Unable to smile, frown or otherwise express emotion, their everyday personal relationships are deeply affected. This memoir of a young woman with Moebius syndrome provides a first-person view of life ""behind the mask.

Primary immunodeficiency diseases, first recognized 60 years ago, are inherited disorders that affect human adaptive and innate immunity. In most cases, affected individuals experience recurrent infections, but they may also suffer from autoimmune diseases and malignancies. This third edition of Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases provides readers with the historic and scientific background, clinical presentations, immunologic characteristics, and the molecular/genetic underpinnings of this rapidly enlarging class of diseases. With up-to-date diagnostic tools and therapeutic options - from prophylactic anti-infective measures to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and gene therapy - this volume will remain an authoritative resource on this increasingly important area.

Shéri Brynard has reached many remarkable milestones, although she was born with Down Syndrome. She talks about how love and acceptance from her family and friends formed her. She tells of her adventures, her pain and the harsh realities she has to face as an adult with Down Syndrome. Her mother tells the tale of living in Shéri’s shadow, speaking without holding back about her crisis of faith when she heard that her daughter had Down Syndrome. A touching tale.

Wyburn-Mason syndrome. Ever heard of it? Dan Jeffries has, and his insightful and hilarious memoir explores what it's like living with one of the world's rarest medical conditions - and then finding out you have another one. Told through an innovative new approach that combines the traditional reading experience with modern technology, Me, Myself & Eye really lets the reader delve into Dan's life story. Use your smart-phone, tablet or computer when you're reading the book to look at family photos, medical documents, scans, videos and even listen to music he's written over the years. Me, Myself & Eye is a memoir that is both fascinating and insightful, told with a fresh, honest and unique voice.

In most peroxisomal disorders the nervous system is severely affected which explains the clinical and community burden they represent. This is the first book to focus not only on the mutations causing these inherited illnesses, but also on mechanisms that regulate, suppress or enhance expression of genes and their products (enzymes). Indeed since the success and completion of the Human Genome Project all genes (coding DNA sequences) are known. However, of many, their function, and the role of the gene product has not been determined. An example is X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, the most frequent peroxisomal disorder. Children are born healthy, but in more than 1 out of 3, demyelination of the brain starts unpredictably and they die in a vegetative state. The gene mutated in most families has been known for 10 years; but the true role of the encoded protein, ALDp, is still speculative; and within the same family, very severe and asymptomatic clinical histories co-exist, unexplained by the mutation.

The essays in this collection examine how human heredity was understood between the end of the First World War and the early 1970s. The contributors explore the interaction of science, medicine and society in determining how heredity was viewed across the world during the politically turbulent years of the twentieth century.

Mutations and Carcinogenicity.- Mutation Spectrum in Carcinogenicity.- Mechanisms of Chemically-Induced Genetic Effects on Molecular, Chromosomal and Cell Division Level.- Ultraviolet Light Mutagenesis in Bacteria: The Possible Role of a DNA Polymerase III Complex Lacking Proofreading Exonuclease.- Centromere Separation: Emerging Relationship with Aneuploidy.- Genetic Analysis of Genotoxic Effects on Chromosomes and Cell Division in Lower Eukaryotes.- DNA Repair and the Recombination Barrier between Divergent (Homologous) Chromosomes.- Consequences of Altering Tubulin Levels in Yeast.- A Genetic Assay Using Rodent/Human Hybrid Cells to Evaluate the Genotoxic Effects of Chemicals for Multiple Endpoints.- Aneuploidy in Humans.- Adaptability and Repair Mechanisms.- The Adaptive Response to Alkylation Damage in Escherichia coli.- The Adaptive Response of Human Lymphocytes to Radiation or Chemical Mutagens: Cross-Adaptation and Synergism.- Evolving Mutation Rates and Prospects for Antimutagenesis.- Genetic Analysis of DNA Repair Defect in Xeroderma Pigmentosum Cells: Identification of Complementing Genes.- Chemical Carcinogenesis-Oncogenes.- Outline of a Descriptive General Theory of Environmental Chemical Cancerogenesis - Experimental Threshold Doses for Tumor Promoters.- The Interaction of Steroid Hormones and Oncogenes in the Establishment of Malignancy.- The Relationship between DNA-Alkali-Labile Sites and Carcinogenesis in Mammalian Cells.- Structure and Metabolism of Mutagens-Carcinogens.- Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships, and Mutagens and Carcinogens.- Enzymic Aspects on the Metabolic Activation of Aromatic and Heterocyclic Amine Mutagensin Mammalian and Bacterial Cells.- Biomonitoring and Epidemiology of Humans Exposed to Environmental Mutagens-Carcinogens.- Current Techniques for Human Population Monitoring for Genetic Effects.- Use of Aquatic Animals for Monitoring Genotoxicity in Unconcentrated Water Samples.- Cytogenetic Monitoring of Industrial Workers Exposed to Chemicals.- Monitoring Congenital Anomalies in Populations Exposed to Environmental Mutagens.- European Community Research on Genetic Effects of Environmental Chemicals and on Biomonitoring of Human Exposure.- Contributors.

Destined to be the definitive reference in this complex surgical area, Endoscopic Craniosynostosis Surgery is the first single resource to offer complete coverage of techniques, outcomes, complications, and results when treating patients with craniosynostosis endoscopically. Dr. David F. Jimenez, a pioneer in the field who has developed minimally invasive endoscopic surgeries to treat very young infants with this condition, provides all appropriate data and detailed guidance on every aspect of the management of craniosynostosis using endoscopic techniques. Covers the surgical management of every type of single suture synostosis as well as multiple and complex synostosis. Presents surgical techniques in depth, with a complete review of short- and long-term outcomes and results. Provides detailed information on patient anesthesia and how to set up the operating room for surgery. Includes detailed descriptions of helmets and their management. Features hundreds of radiographs, clinical photos, and procedural illustrations, as well as procedural videos. Discusses complication avoidance, provides surgical pearls throughout, and supplies patient information online. Enhanced eBook version included with purchase. Your enhanced eBook allows you to access bonus images plus all of the text, figures, and references from the book on a variety of devices.

The most comprehensive guide available on hereditary cancers, from understanding risk, prevention, and genetic counseling and testing to treatment, quality of life, and more. Up to 10 percent of cancers are caused by inherited mutations in specific genes. Finding out that you or your loved ones may be at increased risk of developing cancer because of a genetic mutation raises a lot of questions: Is cancer inevitable? Is there anything I should do differently in my life? Will my children also be at higher risk of cancer? Should I have preemptive treatments or surgery? This comprehensive guide provides answers to these questions and more. Written by three passionate patient advocates, this book is a compilation of the trusted information and support provided for more than two decades by Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE), the de facto voice of the hereditary cancer community. Combining the latest scientific research with national guidelines, expert advice, and compelling patient stories, the book offers previvors (those who have a mutation but have never been diagnosed), survivors, and their families the guidance they need to face the unique physical and emotional challenges of living in a high-risk body. An ideal resource for genetic counselors, physicians, nurses, advocates, and others who support and care for the hereditary cancer community, Living with Hereditary Cancer Risk also provides coverage of * signs of inherited cancer risk in a family; * the value of genetic counseling and testing; * mutations in BRCA, Lynch Syndrome, and other genes that elevate cancer risk; * risk-reducing strategies; * traditional treatments and newer personalized approaches, including immunotherapies and PARP inhibitors; * nationally recommended guidelines for prevention, early detection, and treatment; * insurance coverage and discrimination protections; and * coping with sexual health, fertility, menopause, and other quality of life issues.

It is the year 2019, and fear looms in on the world. A deadly virus, one with the ability and venom to wipe away half of the world's 7.8 billion people, or even extinct humanity forever, has emerged. And now, mankind must summon all the strength, knowledge, experiences, science, technology, resilience, courage, and everything else that they have at their disposal, to combat this dark, mysterious, dangerous disease and all its entities. World War III could just end up being between man and the Coronavirus Disease.

This is a most valuable contribution to paediatric diagnosis which highlights the importance of this essentially visual method in the study of practical paediatric problems. Each topic consists of a concise, informative and scholarly text supported, where appropriate, by key references, many giving a historical perspective. There are over 400 high quality colour plates with descriptive legends, many of which analyse in some detail the individual features of a face regarded as abnormal or dysmorphic, often a necessary practical prerequisite to establishing a definitive diagnosis. The importance of recognising subtle expressive changes and 'facial signals' is considered in relation to emotional disorders. Throughout, the book is leavened by tables listing important diagnostic clues, cranio-facial or otherwise.

Management of Prader-Willi Syndrome brings together the contributions of professionals with considerable expertise in diagnosis and management of PWS. Clinical, social, family, and community issues are explored and management strategies identified. The text presents historical, medical, and genetic information to orient the reader. The major portion deals with pragmatic guidelines, rather than research and diagnosis, and is directed to health and educational specialists in academic, clinical, and community settings. This manual is endorsed by The Prader-Willi Syndrome Association, which is recognized world-wide.

'A perfect blend of cutting-edge science and compelling storytelling. Daniel Davis has a rare knack for making complex science comprehensible and thrilling' BILL BRYSON Welcome to a revolution in the science of you. Recent and dramatic breakthroughs in our understanding of the body will profoundly change the experience of being human in the coming century. Already they are opening up boundary-breaking possibilities for intervention at every level, from our brains and genes to our microbiomes and immune systems. These will confer unprecedented powers over health, childhood development, our cognitive and physical abilities, and affect every aspect of how we live our lives and think about ourselves. As the secrets of our bodies are revealed, we all will face previously unthinkable choices with consequences we have yet to understand. Imagine knowing years in advance the precise likelihood of developing specific cancers, thanks to a bespoke understanding of every cell in your body; following a diet and health regime tailored to your microbiome; continuous monitoring of your body's workings and well-being; taking drugs that improve your cognition and help to acquire new skills; manipulating the genes of your unborn children to eliminate disease or even enhance their capabilities. Written by an award-winning scientist at the forefront of this work, The Secret Body shows how these radical and disconcerting possibilities have been made real thanks to the ingenious technologies and decades-long collaborations of scientists worldwide. A gripping drama of discovery and a landmark account of this dawning revolution, it presents a vision of the human body of dizzying complexity, wonder and possibility. 'A beautifully rendered picture of the startling new discoveries in human biology which are radically altering our understanding of how we function and what our future holds' BRIAN COX 'An extraordinary journey that reveals the magnificence, intricacy and beauty of the human body, fundamentally changing the way we see ourselves. Masterful' ALICE ROBERTS

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a severe chronic illness and one of the world's most common genetic conditions, with 400,000 children born annually with the disorder, mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa, India, Brazil, the Middle East and in diasporic African populations in North America and Europe. Biomedical treatments for SCD are increasingly available to the world's affluent populations, while such medical care is available only in attenuated forms in Africa, India and to socio-economically disadvantaged groups in North America and Europe. Often a condition rendered invisible in policy terms because of its problematic association with politically marginalized groups, the social study of sickle cell has been neglected. This illuminating volume explores the challenges and possibilities for developing a social view of sickle cell, and for improving the quality of lives of those living with SCD. Tackling the controversial role of screening and genetics in SCD, the book offers a brief thematic history of approaches to the condition, queries the role of ethnicity and includes a discussion of how the social model of disability can be applied, as well as featuring chapters focusing on athletics, prisons and schools. Bringing together a wide range of original research conducted in the USA, the UK, Ghana and Nigeria, Sickle Cell and the Social Sciences is anchored in the discipline of sociology, but draws upon a diverse range of fields, including public health, anthropology, social policy and disability studies.

A description of the social, educational, and economic impact of living with a neurological genetic disorder, neurofibromatosis 1. The many unpredictable and potentially stigmatizing possible symptoms of NF1, which range from physical disfigurement to severe learning disorders, may have serious consequences in every aspect of daily life. NF1 was for many years wrongly diagnosed as the Elephant Man's Disease.

Ablon examines the psychosocial costs of this misdiagnosis and the ways in which stage, screen, and television parlayed The Elephant Man into the personification of the grimmist extreme of ugliness. This portrayal engendered fear and anxiety for affected persons and their families and also had an impact on the scientific and medical communities. Ablon analyzes the factors that affect individual positive adaptation to NF1 and the demands of American society, and offers suggestions for families, support systems, and health care providers for treatment of affected individuals.

Containing concise, updated, and easy-to-use summaries on a comprehensive range of clinical scenarios and conditions encountered by paediatricians and multi-disciplinary professionals in their everyday practice, this new edition of Neurodisability and Community Child Health has been substantially revised to be the ideal companion for anyone working with children.