Neuroprotection is a novel perspective for the treatment of disorders
that lead to neurodegeneration and disabilities as a result of
deterioration of neurons due to apoptosis, oxidative stress,
excitotoxicity, and other mechanisms. These mechanisms have implications
not only for neurodegenerative disorders, but also for schizophrenia,
mood and cognitive disorders. The purpose of this book is to provide an
up-to-date overview of basic and clinical studies concerning the
neuroprotective approach, mechanisms, and several compounds with
neuroprotective properties that may contribute to more efficacious
treatment of major mental health disorders.
The book is divided into two sections. The first section serves as an
introduction and overview of conceptual issues of the neuroprotective
approach, and some neurobiological advances. Chapters in this section
review definitions, perspectives, and issues that provide a conceptual
base for the rest of the book. In addition, this part includes chapters
in which the authors present and discuss the findings from basic studies
of neurodegenerative mechanisms that are associated with the
pathogenesis of major mental health disorders. The second section
focuses on findings obtained from clinical trials with neuroprotective
compounds, and neuromodulatory techniques. The take-home message is that
principles of the neuroprotective approach may be applied to treatment
of schizophrenia, mood and cognitive disorders. Contributors to this
book are among the most active investigators and clinicians in the field
who provide new perspectives not only clarifying ongoing controversies
but also propose diverse aspects and new insights to neuroprotection.
This book is intended for a broad readership, which includes a broad
spectrum of readers including neuroscientists, psychiatrists,
neurologists, pharmacologists, clinical psychologists, general
practitioners, geriatricians, graduate students, and policy makers in
the fields of mental health.
