[Liquid crystals (mesophases) in the human body]

The role of liquid crystal state (LCS) of biomacromolecules and phenomena of polymesomorphism in the formation of certain pathological processes in man is considered. The spectrum of diseases the pathogenesis of which is associated with mesophases is discussed. The evidence of participation of mesophases in cellular pathology are presented. A possible influence of LCS on the development of certain disorders found under space flight conditions is mentioned. Particular attention is drawn to the necessity of studying the phase composition and structure of liquid crystals in biological environment for the solution of some diagnostic and prognostic problems.