This practical and concise guide offers an overview of muscular dystrophy's complicated features, treatment options and general resources. New treatments and a greater understanding of proteins and structures associated with MD are discussed along with long term patient care. Also included are clinical and developmental challenges within the current regulatory landscape and recent scientific and clinical advances. Muscular Dystrophy offers clinicians, researchers, pharmaceutical executives and patient advocacy groups an easy-to-read reference that provides the necessary perspectives of the care giver and patient.

This volume explores experimental approaches used to study Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), an X-linked degenerative skeletal muscle disease caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. Including the latest progress and scientific achievements, the book covers recent discoveries achieved through in vivo gene editing which have proven to be promising in restoring dystrophin expression, at least in ameliorating skeletal muscle symptoms, and the contents focus on “Omics” techniques in gene expression, protein expression, miRNAs, and long non-coding RNA analysis, as well as experimental studies of the structural/functional changes affecting the skeletal and cardiac muscles and ongoing preclinical studies and clinical trials. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Methods and Protocols serves as a guide for researchers exploring the complicated nature of dystrophin in the hope of helping the victims of this disorder.

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 prognosis for individuals with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is improving, with some men with DMD living into their 30s and 40s. More vital than ever, this book helps teachers and parents to support children and young people with DMD with their education and transition into adulthood. Leading experts on DMD explain Duchenne and its impact in easy-to-understand terms. Going beyond physical management, particular focus is put on learning and behavioural issues, including speech delay and difficulty learning to read, as well as common comorbid conditions, such as ADHD, autism and OCD. Raising aspirations, the book gives guidance on effective support in the classroom and advice on the transition to adulthood, employment and independent living.

Neuromuscular disorders are diagnosed across the lifespan and create many challenges especially with infants, children and adolescents. This new edition of the definitive reference, edited by the established world renowned authorities on the science, diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders in childhood is a timely and needed resource for all clinicians and researchers studying neuromuscular disorders, especially in childhood. The Second Edition is completely revised to remain current with advances in the field and to insure this remains the standard reference for clinical neurologists and clinical research neurologists. The Second Edition retains comprehensive coverage while shortening the total chapter count to be an even more manageable and effective reference. - Carefully revised new edition of the classic reference on neuromuscular disorders in infancy, childhood and adolescence. - Definitive coverage of the basic science of neuromuscular disease and the latest diagnosis and treatment best practices. - Includes coverage of clinical phenomenology, electrophysiology, histopathology, molecular genetics and protein chemistry

EMPOWER YOURSELF! According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), over 250,000 people are affected by muscular dystrophies (MD) in the United States, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), myotonic muscular dystrophy (DM), facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) among many others. No one with MD needs to be alone in their fight against this rare disorder. That's where this book and the authoritative information within can help. 100 Questions & Answers About Muscular Dystrophy offers essential and practical guidance. This unique book provides both doctor and patient perspectives and offers answers to the most asked questions by patients and their loved ones. Is it safe to exercise? How do I find a clinical trial in which to participate? What are some things to remember when going to the emergency department? What can I do about fatigue? Along with the answers to these and other questions, this book provides information on diagnosis, treatment, living with MD, new therapeutic options, and more. Written by a leading expert on the topic with more than 20 years experience caring for patients with MD, 100 Questions & Answers About Muscular Dystrophy is an easy-to-read book and must-have resource for those living with MD, as well as their loved ones.

Dan's an up-beat boy who loves to have a blast. And like many young boys, he was born with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This is his story.