Neuronal Nicotinic Receptors: Pharmacology and Therapeutic Opportunities

Edited by Stephen P. Arneric and Jorge D. Brioni

Nicotine's efficacy in the treatment of pain and anxiolysis, and its usefulness as a memory enhancer, have been suspected for many years, but research into the molecular biology of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) traditionally has focused on smoking cessation. Now, thanks to recent technological advances in the molecular biology and electrophysiology of nAChRs, an abundance of evidence has emerged in support of nAChR ligands in the treatment of a range of CNS disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, neuropathic pain, attention deficit disorder, and depression.

Featuring contributions from an international team of experts in the field, this volume provides researchers and clinicians with a comprehensive review of nAChRs, their molecular biology, pharmacology, and clinical implications. Moving from the molecular to the clinical levels, the authors explore the latest developments in all areas of nAChR research, including:

• Molecular biology and biochemistry of nAChRs
• The physiological roles of nAChRs
• Pharmacokinetics of nicotine-like alkaloids
• Recent breakthroughs and emerging trends in nAChR medicinal chemistry
• Current and emerging therapeutic applications of novel nAChR ligands.

A timely, authoritative review of basic research into nAChRs and their role in the development of new therapeutic strategies in the treatment of a range of various CNS diseases, Neuronal Nicotinic Receptors: Pharmacology and Therapeutic Opportunities is required reading for neuroscientists, pharmacologists, medicinal chemists, biological psychiatrists, and psychopharmacologists.