Mechanisms of Cell Death and Approaches to Neuroprotection/Disease Modification in Parkinson's Disease

Book excerpt: Mechanisms of Cell Death and Approaches to Neuroprotection/Disease Modification in Parkinson's Disease explores the results of numerous studies surrounding in vitro and animal model evidence that looks at the impact of a-synucleinopathy on neuronal dysfunction and behavioral impairments, (ii) how research in animal models supports the development of therapeutic strategies, and (iii) how findings in animal models might relate to the disease process in humans. In this book, the author's shed light upon the complex scenario of the mechanisms of cell death and approaches to neuroprotection/disease modification in PD, both in vitro to in vivo. Along with degeneration, the pathological hallmark of PD is the presence of intraneuronal proteinaceous cytoplasmic inclusions, named Lewy Bodies (LB) that invade the whole nervous system as the disease progresses. Several fundamental discoveries have shed light upon the implication of the a-syn protein in the pathogenesis of familial and sporadic forms of PD. Other proteins also accumulate in LB, but a-syn is a major protein component of the pathological landmarks. - Updates on the latest research surrounding Mechanisms of Cell Death in Parkinson's Disease - Includes In vitro and In vivo models of synucleinopathy - Presents therapeutic strategies in Parkinson's Disease