Endogenous neuoprotection is a phenomenon where a brief episode of ischemia renders the brain resistant against a subsequent longer-asting ischemia event. Experimentally, the author was able to model hypoxic preconditioning in animal model. Increasing knowledge of this endogenous neuroprotectin by ischemic tolerance may help to minimize neuronal damage following ischemic stroke and hypoxic encephalopathy. This book is, therefore, the first overview of this important topic and will certainly influence further investigations in clinical and neuroscience research.

Although the genomic era is no longer in its infancy, the life sciences are still facing questions about the role of endogenous proteins and peptides in homeostasis and pathologies. Delving into one of the most current fields of interest in biology and medicine, Neuropeptides in Neuroprotection and Neuroregeneration describes the impact of neuropeptides on neuroprotection and neuroregeneration. The book begins with chapters describing important features of the endogenous neuropeptide systems related to their formation, receptor signaling, and inactivation. It includes chapters focused on the design and development of peptide-like drugs (peptidomimetics). In addition, the book covers: General aspects regarding the biosynthesis, structures, and distribution of neuroactive peptides and their receptors Basic mechanisms for neuropeptide action, metabolism, as well as techniques for their detection and aspects essential for the cellular mechanisms underlying brain pathology Neuropeptides known for their impact in neurodegenerative and neuroprotective processes Fundamental aspects as well as recent progress in the development of peptidomimetics of neuroprotective and cognition-enhancing peptides

Neurotrophic factors play central roles in the developing and mature nervous system by promoting neuronal survival. The discovery in 1990 that an exogenously supplied neurotrophic factor could slow the progression of photoreceptor loss in an animal model of retinal degeneration has given rise to an active field of research whose ultimate goal is to develop neuroprotective therapy for patients with blinding diseases. At the same time, a growing body of evidence suggests that endogenously expressed neurotrophic factors maintain retinal health and mediate retinal responses to stress throughout life. This thesis investigates both the requirement for retinal expression of neurotrophic factors in a model of endogenous neuroprotection, and the activity of exogenous factors in a clinically relevant new model of retinal injury.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a significant source of death and permanent disability, contributing to nearly one-third of all injury related deaths in the United States and exacting a profound personal and economic toll. Despite the increased resources that have recently been brought to bear to improve our understanding of TBI, the developme

In this first book to cover model systems, molecular mechanisms and clinical trials all in one volume internationally renowned scientists and clinicians provide a comprehensive treatment of neuroprotective strategies for all important neurological disorders. Following an overview of neurodegenerative, traumatic, and ischemic disorders, the book goes on to cover in vitro and animal model systems as well as cellular and molecular mechanisms. An extremely helpful analysis of clinical studies explains reasons for their success and failure, and the whole is rounded off with a look at the current challenges and hopes for the development of effective treatment strategies in the future.

Neuroprotection has been placed on a firm scientific basis during the past decade due to an improved understanding of the molecular basis of neurological diseases and the knowledge that treatment of neurological disorders should not be merely symptomatic but preventative against the progression of the underlying disease, as well as regenerative. The Handbook of Neuroprotection serves as a comprehensive review of neuroprotection based on knowledge of the molecular basis of neurological disorders. Neuroprotective effects of older, established drugs, as well as new drugs in development, are well documented in this detailed volume, featuring the most cutting-edge and innovative methods currently in use. In-depth and authoritative, The Handbook of Neuroprotection features a compendium of vital knowledge aimed at providing researchers with an essential reference for this key neurological area of study.

Neurological disease affects nearly 25%–30% of the world’s population, exerting enormous financial strain on the healthcare system. Estimated current costs are around $800 annual billion, and this number is expected to increase exponentially as the global population ages. As such, new and alternative neuroprotective strategies are urgently needed. This book examines some of the most promising approaches in neuroprotection as well as discusses current goals and prospects. Organized into three sections, chapters cover such topics as the use of cannabinoids, medicinal plants, and essential oils in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s; protein misfolding and the neuroprotective potential of vitamin E in cerebral ischemia; and potential new neurological treatments and their mechanisms of action.