Cholesterol Transport and Lipoprotein Metabolism

major metabolic fates of cholesterol

In this article, I provide a brief overview of the major pathways involved in cholesterol transport and lipoprotein metabolism, which regulate lipid distribution and homeostasis in humans. Cholesterol plays a crucial role in numerous biological processes, yet its movement within the body requires specialized transport systems. Lipoproteins enable the circulation of cholesterol and other lipids … Read more >>

Biochemical and Physiological Characterization of Milk Bacteria

Fermentative bacteria in milk

In this article, I briefly explain the biochemical and physical characterization of bacteria present in milk. Milk provides an excellent environment for the growth of diverse bacterial populations. The biochemical and physiological characterization of bacteria present in milk is therefore essential for understanding milk quality, spoilage patterns, and safety concerns. Microbial Association with Food and … Read more >>

Induction of Immune Tolerance in Organ Transplantation

In this article, I briefly describe the induction of immune tolerance in organ transplantation. The process of organ transplantation remains limited by immune-mediated graft rejection, prompting extensive efforts to understand and control host immune responses. Allograft Acceptance Without Immunosuppression The recipient’s immune system may occasionally accept an allograft with minimal or no immunosuppressive therapy. This … Read more >>

Therapeutic Approaches to Immune Suppression

blocking co-stimulatory signals

In this article, I briefly describe the types of therapeutic approaches to immune suppression. Therapeutic approaches to immune suppression encompass a broad range of strategies designed to prevent or modulate the host’s immune response against transplanted tissues. These interventions target key cellular and molecular pathways involved in allorecognition, aiming to preserve graft function while minimizing … Read more >>

The Immunology Behind Graft Rejection

hyperacute rejection

In this article, I briefly describe the immunological mechanisms underlying graft rejection. Graft rejection is a complex immune reaction in which the recipient’s immune system identifies the transplanted tissue as foreign and mounts a defense against it. Understanding the immunological pathways underlying this response, from T-cell activation to antibody-mediated injury, is essential for improving transplant … Read more >>

Pre-Transplantation Tests for Organ Transplantation

ABO blood group

In this article, I briefly describe the pre-transplantation tests necessary before organ transplantation. Transplantation success depends primarily on the immune compatibility between the donor and recipient. Because the immune system is designed to recognize and attack foreign tissues, several detailed tests are required to minimize the risk of graft rejection. These compatibility assessments form the … Read more >>

Normal Flora of the Intestinal Tract

The occurrence and localization of normal microbial flora

In this article, I briefly describe the normal flora of the intestinal tract. It explains how the intestinal flora develops, changes, and functions throughout life. Various factors, including diet, stress, illness, and antibiotics, can alter this delicate balance. It also highlights the role of beneficial microbes and the potential health impacts of microbial by-products, emphasizing … Read more >>

Normal Flora of the Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Tract

In this article, I briefly describe the distribution of the normal flora in the skin, eye, and respiratory tract. Our body naturally harbors many microorganisms that live without causing harm. The skin, eyes, and respiratory tract each have their special environments where different types of normal flora thrive. Normal Flora The human body is home … Read more >>

Endotoxins and Associated Virulence Determinants in Bacterial Pathogenesis

Structure of endotoxin

In this article, I briefly describe endotoxins and associated virulence determinants in bacterial pathogenesis. Endotoxins and various bacterial virulence factors contribute to the development and severity of infectious diseases. This article highlights their mechanisms of action, effects on the host’s physiological systems, and their role in enhancing bacterial survival and pathogenicity. Endotoxin Endotoxins are lipopolysaccharide … Read more >>

Bacterial Exotoxins and Their Pathogenic Effects

In this article, I briefly describe some bacterial exotoxins and their pathogenic effects. Bacterial Exotoxins Some microorganisms produce poisonous substances called toxins, which play a key role in disease causation. The potency of these toxins can be measured in several ways, most commonly using LD₅₀ (lethal dose 50), the amount that kills 50% of test animals, … Read more >>