Protein Misfolding in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies

Research focused on protein folding, misfolding, and aggregation is leading to major advances across biochemistry and medicine. The elucidation of a folding code is proving to be of extreme importance in the postgenomic era, where a number of orphan genes have been identified for which no clear function has yet been established. This research is starting to shed light on the molecular and biochemical basis of a number of neurodegenerative diseases of dramatic impact. Protein Misfolding inNeurodegenerative Diseases: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategiesaddresses key issues concerning protein misfolding and aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases. Building on recent developments, including the recognition of protein misfolding as both a marker and a causal agent, the text presents the work of those who are actively pursuing more effective treatments, as well as preventative measures, and a possible cure. These include the use of molecular chaperones to control misfolding andnovel pharmaceuticals, as well as the potential role of various inhibitors and NSAIDS. A Comprehensive Multifaceted Examination of the Complex Causal Agents Implicated in Protein MisfoldingDivided into five sections, this groundbreaking text provides up-to-date accounts for Alzheimera??s, Parkinsona??s, Huntingtona??s, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Transmissible Spongiform Encephalitis. It also explores the highly likelihood that multiple factors, including oxidative stress, play a role in these complex diseases.