Molecular Cardiology for the Cardiologist

• 1. The New Language Of Biology.- From Chromosome to Gene.- Current Technologies.- Gene Transfers.- Genome-Based Methods.- 2. The Normal Heart and Vessels. Molecular Structure in Relation to Physiology.- Membrane Proteins and Electrical Activity.- Sarcomere Structure and Contractility Cytoskeleton.- Extracellular Matrix and Tissue Compliance.- Vasoactive Endothelial Substances.- The Heart and Vessels As Endocrines.- Cardiac and Vascular Growth.- 3. Cardiac and Vascular Remodelling.- Cardiac Hypertrophy and Failure.- The Senescent Heart and Vessels.- 4. Genetics for Nongeneticians.- DNA Polymorphism.- Inherited Diseases.- Monogenic Cardiovascular Diseases.- Multigenic Cardiovascular Diseases and Risk Factors.- 5. Gene Therapy and Cell Transplant.- Gene therapy.- Vectors for gene transfer.- Gene transfer and cell transplant to repair MI.- Conclusion.- References.

'The author has deliberately punctuated the chapter with numerous technical terms which to his credit are well explained. Another useful feature is the addition of internet sites for gene databases. ...an excellent review of the subject starting from first principals. The numerous line diagrams are of a high quality and make an otherwise complex subject easily understandable.' The Bulletin