Neuropeptides in Neuroprotection and Neuroregeneration

Although the genomic era is no longer in its infancy, the life sciences are still facing questions about the role of endogenous proteins and peptides in homeostasis and pathologies. Delving into one of the most current fields of interest in biology and medicine, Neuropeptides in Neuroprotection and Neuroregeneration describes the impact of neuropeptides on neuroprotection and neuroregeneration.

The book begins with chapters describing important features of the endogenous neuropeptide systems related to their formation, receptor signaling, and inactivation. It includes chapters focused on the design and development of peptide-like drugs (peptidomimetics). In addition, the book covers:

• General aspects regarding the biosynthesis, structures, and distribution of neuroactive peptides and their receptors



• Basic mechanisms for neuropeptide action, metabolism, as well as techniques for their detection and aspects essential for the cellular mechanisms underlying brain pathology



• Neuropeptides known for their impact in neurodegenerative and neuroprotective processes



• Fundamental aspects as well as recent progress in the development of peptidomimetics of neuroprotective and cognition-enhancing peptides

The Neuropeptide Systems—Some Basic Concepts. Neuropeptide Biosynthesis. Neuropeptide Degradation Related to the Expression of Physiological Action of Neuropeptide. Neuropeptides, Isolation, Identification, and Quantitation. Cellular and Molecular Processes of Neuronal Damage and Protective Mechanisms in Neuroprotection and Neuroregeneration. What General Messages Can We Learn from the Situation after Brain Ischemia?. Dynorphins in Central Nervous System Pathology. Postnatal Stress Procedures Induce Long-Term Endocrine and Metabolic Alterations Involving Different Proopiomelanocortin-Derived Peptides. Prothymosin α—A Novel Endogenous Neuroprotective Polypeptide against Ischemic Damages. Influence of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids on Dynorphinergic Pathways in the Rat Brain. Angiotensin II Receptors and Neuroprotection. PACAP and Cellular Protection: Cellular Protection by Members of the VIP/Secretin Family with an Emphasis on Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide. General Strategies of Peptide Synthesis. Addressing the Interactions between Opioid Ligands and Their Receptors: Classic and Nonclassic Cases. Use of Peptides as Drug Leads—A Case Story on the Development of Dipeptides Corresponding to the Heptapeptide Substance P(1-7), with Intriguing Effects on Neuropathic Pain. Cognition-Enhancing Peptides and Peptidomimetics.