Glossary of Terms

A building block of DNA or RNA

A oligomer is a molecule that consists of a few similar or identical repeating units which could be derived, actually or conceptually, from copies of a smaller molecule.

A drug currently being tested in clinical trials (see CALLISTO) to slow apoptosis (muscle cell death)

Any of a number of organized or specialized structures within a living cell.

A condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States or less than 1:2,000 in Europe.

A pharmaceutical agent that has been developed specifically to treat a rare medical condition, the condition itself being referred to as an orphan disease, as designated by the FDA

A pharmaceutical agent that has been developed specifically to treat a rare medical condition, the condition itself being referred to as an orphan disease, as designated by the FDA

An artificial support or brace for the limbs or spine

The reduction of bone density, less severe than osteoporosis

The reduction of bone density, more severe than osteopenia

A redox (or oxidation-reduction) reaction is a type of chemical reaction in which the oxidation states of atoms are changed. Redox reactions are characterized by the actual or formal transfer of electrons between chemical species, most often with one species undergoing oxidation while another species undergoes reduction.

A specialized form of care for people with a serious illness to provice relief from symptoms

Passive stretch is when an external force exerts upon the limb to move it into the new position; differing from active stretch which stimulates and prepares muscles for use during exercise

Referring to a genetic change that causes disease.

The property of causing disease.