This book reviews the molecular genetics of the thalassemia syndromes, inherited hemoglobin disorders that comprise the commonest monogenic disorders globally. Thalassemias are found in high frequencies in tropical regions corresponding to the malaria belt. Beta thalassemia traits show high HbA2 by HPLC, and [beta]-globin mutations (commonly point mutations) are detected by using ARMS-PCR, reverse dot-blot analysis and [beta]-globin gene sequencing. Globally>300 [beta] globin gene mutations exist, however regional mutations are limited to 5-6 common ones. Alpha globin gene defects can only be identified by molecular tests, the exception being HbH disease that shows "golf ball" appearance in HbH preparation, pre-integration peaks on HPLC and a fast-moving band on hemoglobin electrophoresis. Multiplex Gap-PCR identities common [alpha]-globin gene deletions. Specific PCR across the junction caused by the unequal crossing over can detect [alpha]-gene triplication. However, heterozygosity or homozygous triplication cannot be resolved by this technique. Non-deletional [alpha]-thalassemia can be characterized by specific [alpha]-globin gene sequencing. Identification of unusual deletions requires Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification. In conclusion, the molecular characterization of human globin gene disorders is required to resolve the phenotypically heterogeneous thalassemia syndromes. Molecular analysis is also an important tool to prevent these disorders by offering prenatal screening in regions with a high disease burden.

In the new edition of this successful and authoritative book, the thalassaemias are reviewed in detail with respect to their clinical features, cellular pathology, molecular genetics, prevention and treatment. It is aimed at specialists in haematology in the laboratory or clinical setting, particularly in areas where thalassaemia is common either in the native population or in immigrant communities. The fourth edition has been both updated and re-organized. Three new chapters have been added on the link between alpha-thalassaemia and mental retardation, on avoidance and population control and on global epidemiology. Considerable emphasis is placed on molecular pathology reflecting the huge burst of information to have come out of this field in the last few years.

This title reflects the exponential growth in the knowledge and information on this subject and defines the extensive clinical translation of cardiovascular genetics and genomics in clinical practice. This concise, clinically oriented text is targeted at a broad range of clinicians who manage patients and families with a wide range of heterogeneous inherited cardiovascular conditions. Cardiovascular Genetics and Genomics: Principles and Clinical Practice includes a concise and clear account on selected topics written by a team of leading experts on clinical cardiovascular genetics. Each chapter include key information to assist the clinician and case histories have been incorporated to reflect contemporary practice in clinical cardiovascular genetics and genomics. Therefore this will be of key importance to all professionals working in the discipline, from clinicians and trainees in cardiology, cardiac surgery, electrophysiology, immunology through geneticists, nursing staff and those involved in precision medicine.

Volume 1 of the Prevention Book presents the principles of a programme for the prevention of the thalassaemia and other haemoglobin disorders, including a description of the various types of disorders requiring prenatal diagnosis, the strategies used for carrier screening, and a number of annexes listing upto date epidemiological and mutation data on thalassaemia. This book was written for use in combination with Volume 2, which describes many of the laboratory protocols in great detail.

Completely revised new edition of the definitive reference on disorders of hemoglobin.

This book reviews the molecular genetics of the thalassemia syndromes, inherited hemoglobin disorders that comprise the commonest monogenic disorders globally. Thalassemias are found in high frequencies in tropical regions corresponding to the malaria belt. Beta thalassemia traits show high HbA2 by HPLC, and β-globin mutations (commonly point mutations) are detected by using ARMS-PCR, reverse dot-blot analysis and β-globin gene sequencing. Globally >300 β globin gene mutations exist, however regional mutations are limited to 5-6 common ones. Alpha globin gene defects can only be identified by molecular tests, the exception being HbH disease that shows "golf ball" appearance in HbH preparation, pre-integration peaks on HPLC and a fast-moving band on hemoglobin electrophoresis. Multiplex Gap-PCR identifies common α-globin gene deletions. Specific PCR across the junction caused by the unequal crossing over can detect α-gene triplication. However, heterozygosity or homozygous triplication cannot be resolved by this technique. Non-deletional α-thalassemia can be characterized by specific α-globin gene sequencing. Identification of unusual deletions requires Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification. In conclusion, the molecular characterization of human globin gene disorders is required to resolve the phenotypically heterogeneous thalassemia syndromes. Molecular analysis is also an important tool to prevent these disorders by offering prenatal screening in regions with a high disease burden.

Here is a complete history of Thalassaemia, the most common type of genetic disorder in the human population, and one of the first whose genetic basis was established. Treatment is also discussed as well at an assessment of how molecular approaches are impacting medicine. - Publisher.--