In the past two decades there have been significant advances made in understanding the cellular and molecular alterations that occur with brain ageing, as well as with our understanding of age-related brain diseases. Ageing is associated with a mid-life decline in many cognitive domains (eg. Attention, working memory, episodic memory) that progresses with advancing age and which may be potentiated by a variety of diseases. However, despite the breadth of attempts to explain it, the underlying basis for age-related memory impairment remains poorly understood. Both normal and “pathological” ageing (as in age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease) may be associated with overlapping and increased levels of “abnormal” pathology, and this may be a potential mediator of cognitive decline in both populations. An emerging hypothesis in this field is that metal ion dys/homeostasis may represent a primary unifying mechanism to explain age- and disease-associated memory impairment – either indirectly via an effect on disease pathogenesis, or by a direct effect on signaling pathways relevant to learning and memory. There remains a concerted worldwide effort to deliver an effective therapeutic treatment for cognitive decline associated with ageing and/or disease, which is currently an unmet need. There have been numerous clinical trials conducted specifically testing drugs to prevent cognitive decline and progression to dementia, but to date the results have been less than impressive, highlighting the urgent need for a greater understanding of the neurobiological basis of memory impairment in ageing and disease which can then drive the search for effective therapeutics.

Research studies demonstrate diet and proper nutrition in conjunction with cognitive, mental, social, and physical activities can significantly help in improving brain health with advancing age, and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These studies of phytopharmaceuticals and medicinal plants, demonstrate the efficacy of Huperzine A, berry anthocyanins, trans-resveratrol, Ginkgo biloba, Bacopa monniera, Centella asiatica, tocotrienols, and palm oil in boosting brain health and physical well-being. In addition, consumption of marine fishes and general seafood is recommended for long-term nutritional intervention to preserve mental health, hinder neurodegenerative processes, and sustain cognitive capacities in humans. Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, n-3/n-6 PUFAs, flavonoids, and antioxidants prevent the initiation and progression of many neurological disorders. This book is a comprehensive review of phytopharmaceuticals impacting brain health with emphasis on diverse applications in food and nutrition sciences, biomedicine, neurology and other scientific and medical fields. It details available methods and contains numerous references making this the perfect guide for scientists who want to explore the fascinating world of phytopharmaceuticals with relation to brain health. Phytopharmaceuticals for Brain Health appeals to a diverse range of readers in industry, medical doctors, research and academia, including biologists, biochemists, food scientists, nutritionists and health professionals. Overall, this book brings a classic scenario of neurological problems to possible amelioration using novel nutraceuticals and functional foods.

Alzheimer’s Disease is characterized pathologically by two principal hallmark lesions: the senile plaque and the neurofibrillary tangle. Since the identification of each over 100 years ago, the major protein components have been elucidated. This has led in turn to the elaboration of metabolic cascades involving amyloid-β production in the case of the senile plaque, and phosphorylated-tau protein in the case of the neurofibrillary tangle. The pathogenesis and histogenesis of each have been the source of extensive investigation and some controversy in recent years, as both cascades have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease, relied upon in the diagnostic criteria for Alzheimer’s Disease at autopsy, and targeted for therapeutic intervention. With the accumulation of data and expansion of knowledge of the molecular biology of Alzheimer’s Disease, it appears that the enthusiasm for successful intervention has been premature. In this book, we detail the discovery and characterization of the major pathological lesions, their associated molecular biology, their relationship to clinical disease, and potential fundamental errors in understanding that may be leading scientific investigators in unintended directions.

This comprehensive reference provides a detailed overview of current concepts regarding the cause of Parkinson's disease-emphasizing the issues involved in the design, implementation, and analysis of epidemiological studies of parkinsonism.

The editor of this volume, having research interests in the field of ROS production and the damage to cellular systems, has identified a number of enzymes showing ·OH scavenging activities details of which are anticipated to be published in the near future as confirmatory experiments are awaited. It is hoped that the information presented in this book on NDs will stimulate both expert and novice researchers in the field with excellent overviews of the current status of research and pointers to future research goals. Clinicians, nurses as well as families and caregivers should also benefit from the material presented in handling and treating their specialised cases. Also the insights gained should be valuable for further understanding of the diseases at molecular levels and should lead to development of new biomarkers, novel diagnostic tools and more effective therapeutic drugs to treat the clinical problems raised by these devastating diseases.

This volume covers the dramatic developments that have occurred in basic neuroscience and clinical research in cognitive neurology and dementia. It is based on the clinical approach to the patient, and provides essential knowledge that is fundamental to clinical practice.

For most Americans, staying "mentally sharp" as they age is a very high priority. Declines in memory and decision-making abilities may trigger fears of Alzheimer's disease or other neurodegenerative diseases. However, cognitive aging is a natural process that can have both positive and negative effects on cognitive function in older adults - effects that vary widely among individuals. At this point in time, when the older population is rapidly growing in the United States and across the globe, it is important to examine what is known about cognitive aging and to identify and promote actions that individuals, organizations, communities, and society can take to help older adults maintain and improve their cognitive health. Cognitive Aging assesses the public health dimensions of cognitive aging with an emphasis on definitions and terminology, epidemiology and surveillance, prevention and intervention, education of health professionals, and public awareness and education. This report makes specific recommendations for individuals to reduce the risks of cognitive decline with aging. Aging is inevitable, but there are actions that can be taken by individuals, families, communities, and society that may help to prevent or ameliorate the impact of aging on the brain, understand more about its impact, and help older adults live more fully and independent lives. Cognitive aging is not just an individual or a family or a health care system challenge. It is an issue that affects the fabric of society and requires actions by many and varied stakeholders. Cognitive Aging offers clear steps that individuals, families, communities, health care providers and systems, financial organizations, community groups, public health agencies, and others can take to promote cognitive health and to help older adults live fuller and more independent lives. Ultimately, this report calls for a societal commitment to cognitive aging as a public health issue that requires prompt action across many sectors.