AutoimmunityThe term “autoimmune disease” refers to a varied group of illnesses that involve almost every human organ system. It includes diseases of the nervous, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems, as well as skin and other connective tissues, eyes, blood and blood vessels. In all of these diseases, the underlying problem is “autoimmunity” – the body’s immune system becomes misdirected and attacks the very organs it was designed to protect. READ MORE |
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CancerCancer is a term used for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and are able to invade other tissues. Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems. Cancer is not just one disease but many diseases. There are more than 100 different types of cancer. Most cancers are named for the organ or type of cell in which they start - for example, cancer that begins in the colon is called colon cancer; cancer that begins in melanocytes of the skin is called melanoma. READ MORE |
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CardiovascularCoronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when a substance called plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart (called coronary arteries). Plaque is made up of cholesterol deposits, which can accumulate in your arteries. When this happens, your arteries can narrow over time. This process is called atherosclerosis. Plaque buildup can cause angina, the most common symptom of CAD. This condition causes chest pain or discomfort because the heart muscle doesn't get enough blood. Over time, CAD can weaken the heart muscle. This may lead to heart failure, a serious condition where the heart can't pump blood the way that it should. An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, can also develop. READ MORE |
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InfectionInfectious diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi; the diseases can be spread, directly or indirectly, from one person to another. Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases of animals that can cause disease when transmitted to humans. A variety of infectious agents are difficult to control. Genetically modified cells can be produced that specifically target these organisms or cells infected with them to enhance weak body defenses and eliminate the infections. Pathogen-specific CARs can be developed to eliminate drug-resistant or difficult to treat infectious agents. READ MORE |
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NeurodegenerationNeurodegeneration is a slow and progressive loss of neuronal cells in specified regions of the brain. This is associated with aging and leads to cognitive or motor disfunctions, depending on which neurons are affected. The causes are unknown, but there are specific genetic loci associated with specific diseases. Examples of neurodegeneration include – Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington’s disease. READ MORE |
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