Based on the mapping of the human genome and the development of information databases, a broad description of genes transcribed in blood cells
is now known. Hembase was developed to provide worldwide access to those genetic-based studies performed by scientists in the Molecular Biology
and Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK). This project represents the shared goal of several individuals and groups (credits) interested in disseminating genomic information on the World Wide Web.
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Hembase Focus: Red Cells
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The production of red blood cells occurs by a process called erythropoiesis whereby erythroid progenitor cells proliferate and differentiate
into erythroid precursor cells (see figure above). Normally, this process is highly dependent upon and regulated by a hormone produced by the
kidneys called erythropoietin. Our laboratory investigates genes transcribed in human erythroid cells as they differentiate into mature red
blood cells. Red blood cells have the fundamental role of delivering oxygen from the lungs to the other body tissues, and diseases associated
with erythroid cells affect millions of people. We hope this data will be useful for the understanding and improved treatment or prevention
of those diseases including all forms of anemia, erythroleukemia, and malaria.
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Hembase Content
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Red blood cells in the circulation arise from hematopoietic stem cells that proliferate as erythroid progenitors and differentiate into erythroid
precursor cells in response to the hormone erythropoietin. Messenger RNA was isolated from those cells and used to generate gene libraries.
Sequencing several thousand expressed sequence tags (EST) from those libraries was then performed. Those EST and sequences encoding several
hundred additional genes with known expression in erythroid cells are compiled here as a database of human erythroid gene activity. The database
is organized and linked according to the location of these sequences within the human genome.
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For questions, contact Jeffery L. Miller
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National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases NIDDK) is part of the
National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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