This open access book presents the roles and mechanisms of signal transduction triggered by nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) stimulation in neuroprotection against toxic effects of risk factors of neurodegenerative diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests that nAChRs in the CNS play important roles not only in excitatory neurotransmission but also in neuronal survival and related functions. Neuroprotection mediated by nAChRs in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease is the major topic of this book. In response to rapidly evolving areas in clinical and laboratory neuropharmacology and neurochemistry, this volume provides in-depth coverage of neuroprotection in basic research and future developments in the clinical application of effective neuroprotective strategies in neurodegenerative diseases. This work appeals to both basic and clinical researchers in several fields, such as neuroscience, neurology, and pharmacology.

New research suggests it is highly probable that DOPA, in addition to being a precursor to dopamine, functions by itself as a neurotramsmitter and/or neuromodulator. Neurobiology of DOPA as a Neurotransmitter integrates background information about DOPA as an inert amino acid precursor of dopamine with the evidence showing that DOPA fulfills several criteria of neurotransmitters. Providing easy access to, and complete understanding of, the latest research on the subject, the book makes the case that DOPA meets many of the criteria of neurotransmitters and includes anti-evidence in some instances. The book begins with a historical review of current knowledge of DOPA. It characterizes DOPA as a prominent example showing transmutation from an inert substance to a gold drug in Parkinson's disease and further to a neurotransmitter in its own right. The next chapters cover the essential criteria of a neurotransmitter such as synthesis, existence, and competitive antagonism. The book describes metabolism composed of catecholamine synthesis and degradation products related to neuron death, physiological release of DOPA in the lower brainstem, striatum, and nucleus accumbens, and physiological or pharmacological responses involved in baroreflex neurotransmission and related to behavioral science including interactions with catecholamines, acetylcholine, glutamate, and GABA. The book explores recognition sites, transport sites, and therapeutic role and mechanisms for neuron death related to adverse influence in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease. Edited by experts in the field, the breadth and depth of information contained in this book is confirmed by a quick scan of the chapter authors. Theysummarize the issues surrounding DOPA neurotoxicity and explore the link between experimental studies and clinical relevance.