Molecular Mechanisms of Atrial Fibrillation Essay

Molecular Mechanisms of Atrial Fibrillation - Essay Example Progression in the studies of genetics and molecular biology would assist in dealing with this disease in a better way. Recently studies by Chelu et al (2009) have brought into light the fact that differences in the ionic (mainly Ca 2+) current flow are responsible for causing AF and turning it into a chronic condition. As Brugada points out â€Å"Research efforts to elucidate the molecular basis of AF are focused into two main areas: human genetics and alterations in genetic expression of ion channels† (Brugada, Is Atrial fibrillation a genetic disease?: Molecular Mechanisms in Arial fibrillation). The beating of the heart muscles, according to research, is strictly controlled by a procedure known as ‘Ca 2+ induced Ca 2+ release’. Here we find that the number of Ca ions that are entering through the Cav. 1.2 which is the L type voltage gated Ca ion channel helps in the increase of the release of more Ca ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum through the intracellular Ca 2+ channels (ryanodine receptor type 2 or RyR2). This influx and release of Ca ions are strictly regulated by the heart muscles for the controlled beating of heart. In AF, where the atria beats rapidly, this rapid beating of the heart leads to production of more Ca ions or Calmodulin- dependent protein kinase II ( CaMKII) phosphorylation of the RyR2. In AF conditions it has also been noticed that L type voltage gated Ca ion channels show a decrease in its amplitude, so it has been deduced that this release of the Ca ions may be due to enhanced functioning of RyR2 channels. There are many reasons as t o why the RyR2 channels may function differently. Earlier it was seen in researches conducted on dogs showing AF conditions, that RyR2 channels remained open in cases having low cystolic Ca ion presence. Another reason as Vest, et al, tells us from his experiments into molecular mechanisms that â€Å"SR Ca2+  leak due to RyR2

INNOVATION (Strategic alliances) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

INNOVATION (Strategic alliances) - Essay Example In business, innovation can be defined as the exploitation of new ideas that find acceptance in the market. These ideas, most often, are incorporated into new processes, technology, best practices and designs (Sarkar 2007, p.2). Some of these ideas may end up causing a complete overhaul to an organization’s operation and range of products. Most of the innovated products are based on the ideas of others or a modification of existing products. In summary, innovation process encompasses; getting a new idea or modifying an old one, reorganization of existing opportunities or those that can be promoted, choice of best alternatives and application of the process and the idea (Sarkar 2007, p.2). Innovation may be as a result of the need to meet the needs of consumers or improve the way of doing things. Companies that fail to embrace innovation have often found themselves left behind by their competitors, leading to the loss of their market niche. The focus on the theories of innovation varies because there are different views on the process of innovation and the factors that lead to the development of innovation. The theories may focus on; (a) technological development, R&D and technical research functions in a company, (b) the individual who creates and develops the new elements, and (c) issues of innovation in the market place (Sundo 1998, p.4). It involves the exchange of technology between two or more companies. Strategic alliances are characterized by risk sharing and mutual commitment in respect to the attainment of specified economic and technological goals and objectives. These alliances tend to arise from the willingness and desire of one firm to assist the other in overall development of the firm business and/or exploitation of certain technological assets portfolio. An example is when the firms in the alliance want to (a) form a joint venture in research and distribution, or (b) enter a joint development agreement, or (c) enter