Abstract
The past 15 years have witnessed the identification of more than 25 genes responsible for inherited neuropathies in humans, many associated with primary alterations of the myelin sheath. A remarkable body of work in patients, as well as animal and cellular models, has defined the clinical and molecular genetics of these illnesses and shed light on how mutations in associated genes produce the heterogeneity of dysmyelinating and demyelinating phenotypes. Here, we review selected recent developments from work on the molecular mechanisms of these disorders and their implications for treatment strategies.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Demyelinating Diseases / genetics*
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Gene Expression Regulation
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Genetic Predisposition to Disease
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Hereditary Sensory and Motor Neuropathy / genetics*
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Humans
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Immunosuppressive Agents / pharmacology
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Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
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Myelin Proteins / genetics
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Myelin Proteins / immunology
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Myelin Proteins / metabolism
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Myelin Sheath / genetics
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Myelin Sheath / immunology
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Myelin Sheath / pathology
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Peripheral Nerves / immunology*
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Peripheral Nerves / pathology
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Peripheral Nerves / physiopathology
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Polyradiculoneuropathy / genetics
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Polyradiculoneuropathy / immunology
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Polyradiculoneuropathy / physiopathology
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Schwann Cells / immunology
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Schwann Cells / metabolism
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Schwann Cells / pathology
Substances
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Immunosuppressive Agents
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Myelin Proteins