Brain Neurotransmitters and Receptors in Aging and Age-Related Disorders [antikvár]

Preface In recent years there has been a marked increase in research activity aimed at understanding the biological characteristics of aging and age-related disabil- ities. The effects of aging on central nervous system function have been of par- ticular interest. Thus, memory loss, apathy, depression, tremor, and incoordi- nation are all symptoms of senility and are caused by alterations in brain function. In some cases, these symptoms are known to be the result of a stroke, infection, or drugs; in many instances, however, the cause of the pro- gressive deterioration in mental health is unknown. As opposed to most medical problems which affect only a small percent- age of the population, virtually everyone, given a sufficient life span, will suffer from some type of age-related infirmity. Furthermore, demographic studies indicate that the number of Americans in the over sixty age group is increasing dramatically, indicating that age-related disabilities will have an even greater impact on our society in the coming years. This volume was prepared in conjunction with a symposium held in Hous- ton, Texas in October 1980. The topics covered range from discussions of the effects of aging on brain structure, chemistry, and electrophysiology to the lat- est advances made in the clinical management of age-related disorders. The re- lationships between aging, brain neurotransmitters, and their receptors are emphasized, because an understanding of these interactions is necessary for the design and development of more specific and effective pharmacological agents. This volume will be of interest to neuroscientists in general and to neuro- pharmacologists, neurologists, and psychiatrists in particular. In addition to providing an up-to-date review of this area, the text should also be useful as a reference guide to current laboratory and clinical procedures being used in this field. S. J. Enna, Ph.D. T. Samorajski, Ph.D. B. Beer, Ph.D.