This book systemically presents the latest research on renal fibrosis, covering all the major topics in the field, including the possible mechanisms, biomarkers, and strategies for prevention and treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Due to its high prevalence, CKD represents a huge global economic and social burden. Irrespective of the initial causes, CKD progresses to end stage kidney disease (ESKD) due to renal fibrosis, which is characterized by glomerulosclerosis, tubule atrophy and atresia, and the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the kidney. Unfortunately, an estimated 1%-2% of the adult population living with CKD will need renal replacement therapy at some point as a result of ESKD. As such, strategies for preventing or slowing CKD progression to ESKD are of utmost importance, and studies aiming to understand the mechanisms of renal fibrosis have been the focus of intensive research. Recently, novel insights into the pathophysiological processes have furthered our understanding of the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis, and more importantly, promoted studies on the early diagnosis and treatment of CKD. This book draws lessons from the extensive, state-of-the-art research in this field, elaborating the new theories and new techniques to offer readers a detailed and comprehensive understanding of renal fibrosis and as well as inspiration for future research directions.

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Comprehensive Clinical Guide delivers a concise review of our current understanding of disease pathogenesis and provides current evidence in the medical literature regarding its diagnosis and management. Each chapter includes key points and a summary aiming to update clinicians about various issues concerning the diagnosis and management of IPF. In addition to outlining the current state of knowledge, each chapter also provides a summary of ongoing research and identifies the needs for future research in the field. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Comprehensive Clinical Guide is an important new text that provides its readers with a better understanding of the pathobiology and natural history of IPF as it continues to evolve.

Leading investigators review the highlights of current fibrosis research and the experimental methodologies used uncover the mechanisms that drive it. In their discussion of research methodologies utilizing cultured cells to model various aspects of the fibrotic response in vitro, the authors describe the isolation, characterization, and propagation of mesenchymal cells, and highlight the similarities and differences between methods that are appropriate for different types of fibroblasts. Approaches for studying collagen gene regulation and TGF-b production are also discussed, along with experimental methodologies utilizing animal models to study the pathogenesis of fibrosis. The protocols follow the successful Methods in Molecular MedicineTM series format, each offering step-by-step laboratory instructions, an introduction outlining the principles behind the technique, lists of the necessary equipment and reagents, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.

Cystic fibrosis used to be thought of as a respiratory and digestive disease, with a uniformly and rapidly fatal outcome. The spectrum of the disease has broadened into the mild atypical case, presenting in middle age, with the potential for complications in virtually every system of the body. In the past few years there has been an explosion of knowledge of the basic science of the defect. The editors have therefore invited the leading scientists and clinicians in the field of cystic fibrosis to describe the recent advances in this disease. Although there are many 'Recent Advances' texts, previous books have been selective in their choice of topics. This book is the first to cover the entire field of this complex disease, and encompasses the rapidly moving topics of the basic molecular and cellular biology as well as the recent multi-system, multi-disciplinary advances in the clinical care of patients. The authors have been charged with writing only about new developments and not to rehash old literature. The bulk of the references is therefore less than five years old. This book addresses all professionals who treat cystic fibrosis and want to have an up-date of new findings in the field, particularly of those outside their immediate specialisation. It will also be useful for basic researchers interested in related scientific areas and the clinical context of their work.

Cystic Fibrosis in the Light of New Research provides the latest research and clinical evidence that will be useful for clinicians, scientists and researchers to further their knowledge around this fascinating condition. The authors have brought along their expertise and wealth of knowledge to produce this book, including the basic science that underlies the disease, the burden of bacterial and viral infections, immunologic aspects of CF, a variety of clinical measurements to predict prognosis and novel therapies including gene therapy. This book will be invaluable and entertaining for anyone who is involved in the care of patients with cystic fibrosis.