Introduction Psychiatric genetics investigates how genetic variations influence the risk, onset, and expression of mental disorders. By integrating molecular genetics, genomics, and neuroscience, this field seeks to uncover the biological foundations of complex psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive […]
Introduction Genetic susceptibility refers to an individual’s increased likelihood of developing a particular disease due to inherited genetic variations. These variations, often found within DNA sequences, influence how the body responds to environmental exposures, pathogens, or physiological stress. While genetics alone rarely […]
Introduction Neuropsychiatric disorders represent a complex and diverse group of conditions that affect both the brain and behavior. These disorders bridge the disciplines of neurology and psychiatry, encompassing a wide spectrum of illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, autism spectrum disorders, […]
Introduction Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revolutionized the field of genetics by identifying genetic variations linked to complex traits and diseases. Unlike traditional candidate gene approaches, GWAS examine the entire genome to uncover single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with specific phenotypes. This […]
Introduction The concept of gene–environment interaction (G×E) describes how genetic makeup and environmental exposures jointly influence human health and disease. Genes provide biological potential, while the environment determines whether and how these potentials are expressed. This interaction explains why individuals with similar […]
Introduction Beta-cell destruction is a central pathogenic event in the development of diabetes mellitus, particularly in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and, to a lesser degree, in advanced type 2 diabetes (T2D). Pancreatic beta cells, located in the islets of Langerhans, are responsible […]
Introduction The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system is one of the most polymorphic genetic systems in humans, playing a central role in the regulation of immune responses. Among the HLA class II haplotypes, DR4-DQ8 (HLA-DRB104–DQA103:01–DQB1*03:02) has been identified as a major genetic […]
Introduction Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes play a pivotal role in the regulation of immune responses and susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. Among the most well-characterized HLA haplotypes, DR3-DQ2 (HLA-DRB103:01–DQA105:01–DQB1*02:01) stands out due to its strong association with a wide range of autoimmune […]
Introduction The immune system is a complex network of cells, molecules, and signaling pathways that maintain body homeostasis by defending against pathogens and abnormal cells. A properly regulated immune response protects the body, while an imbalanced one can lead to disease. Immune […]
Shared Epitope Molecular Basis, Immunological Role, and Clinical Implications in Autoimmune Diseases
Introduction Autoimmune diseases develop when the immune system erroneously targets self-tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Among the strongest genetic risk factors identified for autoimmune conditions, particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA), are allelic variations of the HLA-DRB1 gene. The Shared Epitope […]