This book draws together contributions from cell and developmental biologists, structural biologists, geneticists and clinical scientists aimed at a better understanding of the cellular and molecular basis of these diseases. Topics include: * How nuclear structure and location within a nucleus affect gene expression * Chromatin organization and cell differentiation * The nature of the interactions between the nuclear envelope and the cytoskeleton * The extent to which the cytoskeleton mediates communication between the cell membrane and nucleus in regulating gene expression and whether disruption of such communication might underlie the disease processes It is hoped that a better understanding of the mechanisms leading to disease pathogenesis may ultimately lead to more rational and appropriate treatments.