In 2010, we put forward a hypothetical model of the major biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The model was received with interest because we described the temporal evolution of AD biomarkers in relation to each other and to the onset and progression of clinical symptoms. Since then, evidence has accumulated that supports the major assumptions of this model. Evidence has also appeared that ...

The plasma membranes of most if not all vertebrate cells contain a transport system that mediates the transmembrane exchange of sodium for hydrogen. The kinetic properties of this transport system include a 1:1 stoichiometry, affinity for lithium and ammonium ion in addition to sodium and hydrogen, the ability to function in multiple 1:1 exchange modes involving these four cations, sensitivity ...

OBJECTIVE Evidence for a connection between stress and selected neurodegenerative diseases as well as mental disorders is analyzed. Does stress cause or exacerbate related pathophysiological disease processes? METHOD The stress phenomenon is illustrated and the impact of stress on the nervous system, neurodegenerative diseases, and mental disorders is examined. The connection between stress a...

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) modulate a vast array of cellular processes. The current review gives an overview of the general characteristics of GPCRs and their role in physiological conditions. In addition, it describes the current knowledge of the physiological and pathophysiological functions of GPR55, an orphan GPCR, and how it can be exploited as a therapeutic target to combat vario...

Mitochondria participate in a variety of cellular functions. As such, mitochondrial diseases exhibit numerous clinical phenotypes. Because mitochondrial functions are highly conserved between humans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, yeast are an excellent model to study mitochondrial disease, providing insight into both physiological and pathophysiological processes.

The pathological study of the placenta is of upmost importance in cases of unexplained fetal/perinatal loss and often these carry litigation implications. Integrating pathological findings and the underlying pathophysiological processes, leading to placental lesions, is fundamental for the evaluation of poor fetal and perinatal outcomes and to distinguish from cases of true negligence.

Microparticles are plasma membrane-derived vesicles shed from stimulated cells, in the broad sense of the term. Their presence is interpreted by proximal or remote cells in fundamental physiological processes including intercellular communication, hemostasis, and immunity. On the other hand, variations of their number or characteristics are frequently observed in pathophysiological situations.

Kinase-linked receptors and nuclear receptors connect external cues to gene transcription. Among nuclear receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are of special interest in relation to widespread human diseases. Mapping out connections between PPARs and kinase-linked receptor signaling is central to better understand physiological and pathophysiological processes and to be...