Unconventional neurotransmitters, neurodegeneration and neuroprotection
Braz. j. med. biol. res
;
42(1): 68-75, Jan. 2009.
Article
in English
| LILACS
| ID: lil-505428
ABSTRACT
Neurotransmitters are also involved in functions other than conventional signal transfer between nerve cells, such as development, plasticity, neurodegeneration, and neuroprotection. For example, there is a considerable amount of data indicating developmental roles for the glutamatergic, cholinergic, dopaminergic, GABA-ergic, and ATP/adenosine systems. In this review, we discuss the existing literature on these "new" functions of neurotransmitters in relation to some unconventional neurotransmitters, such as the endocannabinoids and nitric oxide. Data indicating both transcriptional and post-transcriptional modulation of endocannabinoid and nitrinergic systems after neural lesions are discussed in relation to the non-conventional roles of these neurotransmitters. Knowledge of the roles of neurotransmitters in brain functions other than information transfer is critical for a more complete understanding of the functional organization of the brain and to provide more opportunities for the development of therapeutical tools aimed at minimizing neuronal death.
Full text:
Available
Index:
LILACS (Americas)
Main subject:
Neurotransmitter Agents
/
Nerve Degeneration
Limits:
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
Braz. j. med. biol. res
Journal subject:
Biology
/
Medicine
Year:
2009
Type:
Article
/
Congress and conference
/
Project document
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Institution/Affiliation country:
Universidade de São Paulo/BR
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