The biomolecular and ultrastructural basis of epidermolysis bullosa.
Transmission electron microscopy, immunoelectron microscopy, immunofluorescence and antigenic mapping have improved our understanding of the dermo-epidermal junction. We have reviewed some ultrastructural and biomolecular aspects related to the dermo-epidermal junction. In part, they are implicated in the pathogenesis of a group of hereditary disorders characterized by skin fragility, collectively known as epidermolysis bullosa (EB). These disorders could benefit in the near future from a gene therapy approach but at present genetic counseling, prenatal diagnosis and conservative treatment measures offer little real benefit to patients.
Solovan
C
C
University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dermatology Department, Nicoara Moise 6, 300314 Timisoara, Romania.
Ciolan
M
M
Olariu
L
L
D004820:Epidermolysis Bullosa / Q000235:genetics* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D006801:Humans; D012867:Skin / Q000033:anatomy & histology