[In this review we summarise the current results of the genomic investigation of allergic diseases. From the genetic point of view allergy is multifactorial, which means that the susceptibility to the disease is determined by the effect of one or more genes or the interactions between multiple genes and involves important nongenetic factors such as the environment for their expression. Among allergic diseases the genomic background of asthma was studied most thoroughly. Until now, using hundreds of DNA markers, located across all of the human chromosomes, 16 genome-wide screens for susceptibility genes for asthma or asthma related intermediate phenotypes in 12 different populations have been published and 20 chromosomal regions have been highlighted for further analysis. In genetic association studies more than 500 genes were identified as candidate genes for asthma. In this review, we selected those results which were consistently reported by several independent studies or appeared particularly important or interesting. According to the results of the human genome programs and association studies we discuss the possible roles of candidate genes found in these loci in the pathomechanism of allergy and atopy.]

[Bioinformatics is one of the most important element of genomic research revolutionising biomedical science. This review describes the phenomena of genomic variance and comparative genomics. Briefly, the review summarises the identification procedure of new genes and gene expression patterns highly important in diagnostics. Bioinformatic procedures make possible the rapid detection of pathogens and have principal role in molecular drug design technologies.]

[The investigation of schizophrenia’s aetiology and pathomechanism is of high importance in neurosciences. In the recent decades, analyzing event-related potentials have proven to be useful to reveal the neuropsychological dysfunctions in schizophrenia. Even the very early stages of auditory stimulus processing are impaired in this disorder; this might contribute to the experience of auditory hallucinations. The present review summarizes the recent literature on the relationship between auditory hallucinations and event-related potentials. Due to the dysfunction of early auditory sensory processing, patients with schizophrenia are not able to locate the source of stimuli and to allocate their attention appropriately. These deficits might lead to auditory hallucinations and problems with daily functioning. Studies involving high risk groups may provide tools for screening and early interventions; thus improving the prognosis of schizophrenia. ]

[Hypertension is one of the most common diseases with a prevalence of over 25%. Despite of the availability of modern therapeutic options, the proportion of well-controlled patients is low. Before starting the treatment of patients with hypertension, it is essential to assess cardiovascular risk factors, co-morbidities and damages to target organs, in addition to repeated blood pressure measurements. The author first reviews the non-pharmacological treatment options of hypertension, then summarizes the most important characteristics of first-line antihypertensive agents (diuretics, beta-receptor blockers, calcium channel antagonists, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers). Considering the complex pathomechanism of essential hypertension, the author details the advantages and options of combined antihypertensive therapy, touching on the combinations recommended in special conditions. The metabolic effects and side-effects of antihypertensive agents, which have recently gained increased significance, are also discussed. Modern hypertension care is aimed at maximally decreasing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and improving the patient's quality of life. Maximum decrease of cardiovascular risk not only involves proper blood pressure control, but also aggressive fight against other risk factors (e.g., diabetes, dyslipidaemia, smoking) and treatment of target organ damages and comorbidities.]