Small Circular DNAs in Human Pathology

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Small Circular DNAs in Human Pathology
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

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Author:

Stephany Carolina BARRETO, Madhuri UPPALAPATI, Amitabha RAY


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Small Circular DNAs in Human Pathology

Year: 2014

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Small circular deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules play a significant role in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, particularly concerning human health and disease. This group includes bacterial plasmids, viral genomes, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and other extra-chromosomal elements, each contributing uniquely to cellular functions and pathological conditions, especially in the context of cancer. Bacterial plasmids are known for their ability to replicate independently of the bacterial chromosome, often encoding genes that confer advantageous traits such as antibiotic resistance. On the viral side, small circular DNA genomes can be found in families like anelloviruses, polyomaviruses, and papillomaviruses, the latter being prominently linked to increased cancer risks.

Summary of One Important Concept: Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

Mitochondrial DNA is a type of small circular DNA that exists in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells, distinct from nuclear DNA. It consists of 37 genes essential for various functions, including those related to the oxidative phosphorylation system and mitochondrial protein synthesis. Notably, mtDNA is inherited maternally and is more susceptible to mutations due to its exposure to reactive oxygen species and limited repair mechanisms. These mutations are implicated in several diseases, including mitochondrial pathologies and various cancers. For example, research has shown mtDNA alterations in breast and prostate cancers, where specific mutations might be associated with tumorigenicity and treatment responses. Furthermore, analyzing mtDNA may aid in understanding cancer progression and developing targeted therapeutic strategies.

Conclusion

The exploration of small circular DNAs, particularly mitochondrial DNA and plasmids, highlights their complex interplay in cellular processes and their significance in the context of human diseases such as cancer. As our understanding of these molecular entities deepens, there is potential for utilizing this knowledge in clinical applications, including diagnostics and therapies. For instance, the development of affordable DNA vaccines derived from plasmids could provide powerful tools against cancers associated with viral infections, such as those caused by high-risk human papillomaviruses. Overall, ongoing research in this field promises to unveil critical insights into the role of small circular DNAs in health and disease, paving the way for innovative medical interventions.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are small circular DNA molecules and their significance?

Small circular DNA molecules include bacterial plasmids and certain viral genomes. They can enhance survival in bacteria by providing genes for drug resistance or toxins. Understanding these molecules has implications for gene cloning, molecular biology, and potential therapeutic applications.

How does mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) contribute to human health?

Mitochondrial DNA is essential for energy production and is linked to various diseases. Mutations in mtDNA can lead to disorders such as Kearns-Sayre syndrome and Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, as well as being implicated in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

What role do plasmids play in antibiotic resistance?

Bacterial plasmids facilitate antibiotic resistance by harboring genes that confer resistance. They can be transferred between bacteria, contributing to the spread of resistance, which is a significant public health concern due to increasing treatment failures.

How are viruses with small circular DNA linked to diseases?

Viruses like papillomaviruses and polyomaviruses contain small circular DNA and are associated with various diseases. For example, human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to cervical cancer, while polyomaviruses may cause complications in immunocompromised individuals.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Small Circular DNAs in Human Pathology”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Cancer:
Cancer represents a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and division, leading to the formation of tumors. It poses significant public health challenges globally, making it a primary concern in medical research, treatment development, and health policy. Understanding cancer pathology is essential for advancing therapies and improving patient outcomes.

2) Viru:
The term 'viru' likely relates to 'virus', which signifies a type of infectious agent that can cause diseases. Understanding viral behavior, transmission, and pathogenesis is crucial in virology, especially concerning human health. Emerging viral infections and their association with and impacts on diseases underline the importance of vaccine and antiviral research.

3) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition of a bodily part, an organism, or system resulting from various factors including infection, genetic anomalies, or environmental influences. Studying diseases, their causes, mechanisms, and treatments helps inform public health strategies and enhances therapeutic interventions, fostering improved health and disease management across populations.

4) Mutation:
Mutation denotes any alteration in the DNA sequence of an organism, which can lead to variations in traits or functions. In genetics and oncology, mutations are pivotal as they can initiate cancerous transformation. Understanding mutation dynamics aids in the development of targeted therapies and precision medicine strategies.

5) Table:
In a research context, 'table' signifies a structured format for presenting data systematically. Tables facilitate the comparison and summarization of findings, making complex information accessible. They are essential in scientific papers for displaying results, methods, and statistical analyses, which contribute to validating hypotheses and supporting conclusions.

6) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria. They are crucial in treating infections caused by bacteria. Research into new antibacterial agents is continually needed to combat antibiotic resistance and discover novel therapeutics that can effectively target pathogenic bacteria.

7) Drug:
The word 'drug' refers to any substance used for medical purposes, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or relief of symptoms. The pharmacological properties of drugs are crucial in developing therapies. Ongoing research aims to discover and optimize drug effectiveness while minimizing side effects and addressing issues like drug resistance.

8) Study (Studying):
In research, a 'study' refers to a systematic examination or investigation of a subject to establish facts or principles. The integrity of a study directly impacts the reliability of its results and conclusions, thereby influencing clinical practices, public health policies, and further research efforts.

9) Line:
In scientific literature, 'line' often refers to lineage or a sequence of descent, particularly in genetic studies. Additionally, lines can denote specific genetic variations or cultured cell lines used in experiments. Clarity in defining lines is essential when discussing results related to inheritance, evolution, or biotechnology applications.

10) Death:
Death signifies the cessation of biological functions that sustain an organism. In medical and public health contexts, understanding the causes and rates of death informs strategies for disease prevention and health promotion. Research into mortality rates helps to identify health disparities, improve care practices, and prioritize health interventions.

11) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid in the body responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste products. It plays a significant role in immune responses and overall health. Research on blood composition and function is pivotal in diagnosing and treating various conditions, including hematological diseases and infections.

12) Post:
The term 'post' relates to occurrences or conditions following specific events. In scientific contexts, it may pertain to post-treatment evaluations, post-surgical outcomes, or post-mortem studies. Understanding 'post' dynamics is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of interventions and the long-term effects of various health conditions.

13) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transform denotes a significant change or conversion process, especially in biological contexts, referring to cells or organisms adopting new characteristics. Understanding transformation processes is crucial in cancer research, biotechnology, and genetic engineering and holds potential for innovative therapeutic applications.

14) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. It integrates various disciplines, resulting in the development of treatment protocols and health policies. Advances in medicine directly correlate with improved health outcomes, necessitating ongoing research and education to optimize healthcare delivery.

15) Species:
The term 'species' refers to a group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring. In biological research, understanding species diversity is critical for conservation efforts, ecosystem dynamics, and studying evolutionary processes. Speciation and systematic classifications provide insights into ecological relationships and genetic variability.

16) Aureus:
Aureus, commonly associated with Staphylococcus aureus, is a species of pathogenic bacteria known for causing a range of infections. Understanding its resistance mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing bacterial infections, especially in healthcare settings. Research into treatments against aureus strains is vital for addressing antibiotic resistance.

17) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common surname in India and can refer to researchers or clinicians in various fields, particularly in health and medicine. Individuals by this name may contribute to enhancing knowledge in oncology, infectious diseases, public health, or genetic research, impacting local and global health landscapes.

18) Nature:
Nature relates to the inherent characteristics of organisms, environments, and ecosystems. In scientific contexts, it implies the natural world and its functions, underpinning ecological studies, biodiversity research, and conservation efforts. Understanding natural processes aids in comprehending relationships between organisms and their habitats.

19) Animal:
Animal refers to multicellular eukaryotic organisms in the kingdom Animalia. Their biological functions and interactions with humans are pivotal in many scientific fields, including pharmacology, medicine, and environmental science. Studying animals offers insights into evolutionary processes, behavior, and disease, contributing to advancements in veterinary and human medicine.

20) Indian:
The term 'Indian' signifies anything related to India, a country notable for its rich cultural and ethnic diversity. In medical research, Indian populations are of particular interest due to their unique genetic profiles, health challenges, and traditional practices, which contribute to public health narratives and epidemiological studies.

21) Vana:
In certain contexts, 'Vana' refers to forested regions or wildlife conservation. It may relate to biodiversity, conservation efforts, and ecological studies. Understanding the intricacies of forest ecosystems is essential for promoting sustainable practices that protect flora and fauna and mitigate human impacts on natural habitats.

22) Pur:
The term 'poor' often describes individuals or communities lacking sufficient resources, impacting their health and access to care. Addressing poverty is essential in public health, as socioeconomic status heavily influences health outcomes, disease prevalence, and access to effective medical interventions.

23) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation in a scientific context typically refers to the gradual gathering or increase of substances, e.g., toxins or metabolites within organisms. Understanding accumulation processes is vital in toxicology, environmental science, and disease pathology, as they can influence health and chronic conditions significantly.

24) Developing:
Developing relates to the progress or evolution of entities, including economies, nations, or technologies. In healthcare, it often refers to improving health systems, medical technologies, and treatment protocols, particularly in low-income settings where access to quality care and innovative solutions is crucial for growth.

25) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses awareness or understanding gained through experience or education. In research and health contexts, it provides the foundation for medical practices, informing clinical guidelines, public health strategies, and advancements in understanding diseases and therapies. Sharing knowledge fosters improvements in community health and individual patient care.

26) Evolution:
Evolution refers to the gradual development and adaptation of organisms over time through natural selection. This fundamental concept in biology underpins our understanding of genetics, species diversity, and the emergence of diseases, informing research strategies and therapeutic approaches in medicine.

27) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal brain activity. Understanding epilepsy's pathophysiology is crucial for developing effective treatments and improving patient management. Ongoing research focuses on identifying causes, potential biomarkers, and optimal therapies to enhance quality of life for individuals affected.

28) Repair:
Repair refers to the processes by which organisms restore function, structure, or integrity after damage. In cellular biology, understanding repair mechanisms—especially in DNA and other cellular components—is critical for developing therapies targeting injuries, diseases, or age-related decline, contributing to advancements in regenerative medicine and treatment approaches.

29) Rules:
In scientific research, 'rules' refer to established guidelines or principles that govern experimental protocols or methodologies. Adhering to these rules is essential for maintaining the integrity and reproducibility of research findings, allowing for the advancement and verification of scientific knowledge.

30) Field:
Field signifies an area of study or practice, such as medicine, biology, or public health. Each field has its own scope, methodologies, and challenges, shaping the research agenda and priorities. Understanding diverse fields fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing problem-solving and innovation in addressing health and societal issues.

31) Fever:
Fever is a common sign of an underlying infection or illness characterized by an elevation in body temperature. It is essential to evaluate fever in clinical practice as it guides diagnosis, treatment decisions, and monitoring responses to therapies, influencing patient management strategies.

32) Cina:
China, as the world's most populous country, presents unique public health challenges and research opportunities due to its diverse population and rapid economic development. Studies conducted in China often yield insights applicable to global health, particularly regarding infectious diseases, health services, and cultural factors influencing care.

33) Mela:
In specific contexts, 'Mela' refers to traditional fairs or festivals in South Asia. Such events often include health initiatives, education, and community engagement. Understanding cultural practices associated with Mela can inform public health strategies aimed at improving health literacy and access to services.

34) Hand:
Hand refers not only to the anatomical structure enabling human interactions and tasks but also to broader connotations of help or assistance. In healthcare, 'hand' signifies the importance of manual skills in procedures and the need for human interaction and empathy in patient care.

35) Surrounding:
Surrounding contextualizes environmental or situational factors impacting organisms, health, or behavioral responses. Recognizing how surrounding conditions influence outcomes expands understanding in fields like environmental health, sociology, and psychology, highlighting the interconnectivity of lifestyle and health outcomes.

36) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is a city in India renowned for its historical, cultural, and religious significance. It serves as a focal point for various public health studies due to its population density, cultural practices, and diverse health challenges, and often features in research related to health systems, sanitation, and disease prevention.

37) Toxicity:
Toxicity signifies the degree to which a substance can cause harm to biological systems. Understanding toxicity is essential in pharmacology, environmental health, and toxicology, as it guides the development of safe drugs, agricultural practices, and interventions aimed at minimizing chemical exposures.

38) Deafness:
Deafness refers to the partial or total inability to hear, which can result from various causes including genetic factors, infections, or environmental toxins. Understanding deafness mechanisms, prevention strategies, and therapeutic interventions is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing communication options for individuals affected.

39) Allergy:
Allergy denotes hypersensitive reactions elicited by specific substances, termed allergens. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of allergies is vital for developing effective treatments and prevention strategies. Allergies can significantly impact quality of life and are increasingly prevalent globally, necessitating ongoing research and awareness in public health.

40) Thomas:
Thomas can refer to individuals contributing to various scientific domains. Researchers or clinicians with this name have potentially advanced studies in health, medicine, or related fields, reflecting the human element that drives innovations and knowledge-building essential for improving health systems and addressing diseases.

41) Ghanta (Ghamta):
Ghanta refers to individuals in academic or medical contexts, potentially contributing significant research findings. The work of researchers with this name may span various disciplines, playing vital roles in enhancing understanding of health, diseases, or public health policies, ultimately influencing healthcare practices and patient outcomes.

42) India:
India represents a nation with a rich tapestry of cultures and health challenges. Its diverse population offers a unique context for public health research, including infectious diseases, maternal health, and nutrition. Understanding India’s healthcare landscape is vital for improving health outcomes in both local and global contexts.

43) Malik:
Malik may refer to individuals engaged in scientific or medical research, contributing valuable insights to their respective fields. Their investigations often focus on health-related topics, influencing clinical practices, health policies, and research initiatives that aim to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.

44) Jacob:
Jacob may denote individuals or researchers in various fields, particularly in medicine or life sciences. Contributions by persons with this name can significantly impact understanding complex health issues, leading to advancements in research, treatment methodologies, and public health initiatives aimed at improving human health.

45) Beta:
Beta signifies a second version or a preliminary stage of development in various contexts, including pharmaceuticals and software. Understanding beta phases is essential for assessing efficacy and safety before full-scale implementation, particularly regarding drug development and testing therapies in clinical research.

46) Vila:
Vila may reference researchers or clinicians making notable contributions in health and medical sciences, potentially influencing therapeutic approaches, public health policies, or scientific understanding. Their work plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge and improving health outcomes in various contexts.

47) Ter:
Ther signifies a prefix or element in scientific nomenclature, often associated with therapy or therapeutic research in clinical settings. Understanding therapeutic approaches and innovative treatments is fundamental in advancing healthcare practices, improving patient outcomes, and addressing complex health issues.

48) Chan:
Chan may refer to individuals involved in significant research and development within the medical or scientific communities. Efforts by researchers with this name can focus on understanding diseases, patient care improvements, and innovative treatment modalities, enhancing the overall effectiveness of healthcare systems.

49) Detachment:
Detachment refers to the physical and emotional separation from a condition or situation, often studied in psychological and medical contexts. Understanding detachment mechanisms is essential for mental health interventions, helping to address symptoms and improve the well-being of individuals experiencing various disorders.

50) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the methodological approach used to acquire knowledge through systematic observation and experimentation. In research, scientific principles ensure rigor, credibility, and objectivity, fostering advancements in numerous fields, including medicine, biology, and environmental science, ultimately benefiting society through informed decisions and practices.

51) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a physiological reaction causing the expulsion of stomach contents, a common symptom of various illnesses. Understanding its mechanisms and underlying causes is integral in medical practice, guiding treatments and interventions aimed at preventing dehydration and addressing the symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders.

52) Activity:
Activity pertains to actions or operations undertaken in various contexts, often linked to biological or physical behaviors. Understanding activity levels, particularly in relation to metabolic processes or medication effects, is crucial in health sciences, informing guidelines for behavioral modifications or lifestyle changes beneficial for overall health.

53) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygienic relates to practices promoting health and cleanliness in daily living. Maintaining hygienic conditions is vital for preventing disease transmission and ensuring public health. Emphasis on hygienic standards in healthcare settings helps mitigate infection risks, enhance patient safety, and improve health outcomes.

54) Account:
An account denotes a detailed report or description of an event or phenomenon. In academic and clinical settings, accounts provide important insights into findings, methodologies, and observations, facilitating the dissemination of knowledge and the development of informed practices in research and healthcare.

55) Killing (Killed):
Killing refers to the act of causing death, which in a medical context can relate to the effectiveness of treatments, such as antibiotics in regulating bacterial growth. Understanding the mechanisms of killing may lead to improvements in therapeutic strategies aimed at combating infections and diseases.

56) Family:
Family denotes a group of related organisms or individuals tied by genetic or social bonds. In genetics, understanding family trees is essential for studying inheritance patterns and predispositions to certain diseases, thereby informing public health strategies and personalized medicine approaches.

57) Birth:
Birth signifies the commencement of life for an organism, marking significant biological changes and public health considerations. Understanding birth dynamics, including maternal health and neonatal care, informs practices aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes and reducing perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality.

58) Miṇi (Mini):
Mini can refer to a smaller version or subset of a phenomenon, often indicating reduced size or scale in biological studies. Understanding mini systems can enhance experimental designs, allowing for focused studies that inform larger scale research efforts, including efficacy assessments and safety evaluations.

59) Trina (Trna, Tri-na):
TRNA (transfer RNA) plays a vital role in protein synthesis by transporting amino acids to ribosomes. Understanding tRNA function and dynamics is crucial in molecular biology, influencing genetic translation processes and informing research related to diseases where protein synthesis is aberrant.

60) Pose:
Pose signifies presenting a problem, challenge, or inquiry within a specific context. In research and clinical scenarios, effectively posing questions guides investigations and frames hypotheses, thus facilitating the advancement of knowledge and informing practical applications in various fields.

61) Miti:
Midi, often highlighting a medium-sized entity, can refer to a classification in genetic and biological contexts. Understanding midi systems aids in comparative analyses, bridging smaller and larger biological models to inform broader scientific inquiries and enhancing the understanding of biological phenomena.

62) Rati:
Radi may refer to radiological or radiation-related studies, impacting fields such as imaging and cancer therapy. Understanding radi biology is essential for developing effective therapeutic modalities and improving diagnostic imaging techniques, contributing significantly to enhanced patient care.

63) Male:
Male denotes one of the two primary biological sexes, influencing reproductive roles and genetic studies. Understanding male biology is crucial in various research fields, including endocrinology, reproductive health, and genetics, informing approaches to addressing male-specific health issues and diseases.

64) Life:
Life embodies the characteristic quality distinguishing living organisms from inorganic matter. Understanding the biological processes that sustain life is fundamental in fields such as biology, medicine, and ecology, informing strategies for health promotion, disease prevention, and environmental conservation.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Small Circular DNAs in Human Pathology’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Molecular biology, Comparative studies, Reactive oxygen species, Drug resistance, Staphylococcus aureus, Systemic autoimmune disease, Multidrug resistance, Antibiotic resistance, Cancer patients, Human papillomavirus, Cervical cancer, Viral genome, Therapeutic approaches, Horizontal gene transfer, Gene therapy, Tetracycline resistance, BKV infection, Merkel cell carcinoma, Micronuclei formation, Mitochondrial dysfunction, Non-human primates, Mitochondrial DNA, Cancer therapies, Gene cloning, Bacterial plasmids, Genetic instability, Methicillin-resistant strains, Aminoglycosides resistance, Chloramphenicol acetyltransferase.

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