Progressive Systemic Sclerosis Scleroderma

systemic sclerosis
Scleroderma is a disease of unknown cause characterized by abnormally increased collagen deposition in the skin. The course is usually slowly progressive and chronically disabling, but it can be rapidly progressive and fatal because of involvement of internal organs. It commonly begins in the third or fourth decade of life, but children are occasionally affected. The prevalence of the disease is one case per 100,000 in the population. Women are affected twice as often as men. There is no racial predisposition. (more…)

Natural Immune System – Natural Killer Cells and Innate Immune Response

natural immune system innate response
Natural killer cells: history and current status

Natural killer cells are a major component of the immune system, which play important roles in host defense against cancer and microbial infections. Natural killer cells are distinct from T or B lymphocytes, with a characteristic morphology of large granular cells, and can be readily identified by characteristic cell surface molecules. (more…)