[
2007]
TRP ion channels were first described in Drosophila melanogaster in 1989 and in mammals several years later. In 1997, TRPV1, a member of the TRP channel superfamily (now with more than 60 members in vertebrates and invertebrates but not in bacteria and plants), was described to respond to the pungent ingredients of hot pepper, then named capsaicin receptor. Ever since we have witnessed an explosion of activity in this field of scientific inquiry for obvious reasons. TRP ion channels are critical elements in signal transduction of cellular signaling cascades and of neurosensory processes, which are involved in all five senses. This book, TRP Ion Channel Function in Sensory Transduction and Cellular Signaling Cascades presents 31 chapters written by researchers who have made these key discoveries, such as Dr. Lutz Birnbaumer who discovered mammalian TRP channels, and who continues to conduct TRP ion channel research at the cutting edge of this hyperdynamic area. Because of the burgeoning nature of the field, this book does not represent an all-comprehensive view on TRP channel biology. However, it does shed light on selected topics of outstanding interest in the TRP arena, such as signal transduction in axonal pathfinding, and vascular, renal, auditory, and nociceptive functioning, to name a few, and the spotlight is cast by an international cast of outstanding chapter authors.
[
2011]
In 1993, the genetic mutation responsible for Huntington's disease (HD) was identified. Considered a milestone in human genomics, this discovery has led to nearly two decades of remarkable progress that has greatly increased our knowledge of HD, and documented an unexpectedly large and diverse range of biochemical and genetic perturbations that seem to result directly from the expression of the mutant huntingtin gene. Neurobiology of Huntington's Disease: Applications to Drug Discovery presents a thorough review of the issues surrounding drug discovery and development for the treatment of this paradigmatic neurodegenerative disease. Drawing on the expertise of key researchers in the field, the book discusses the basic neurobiology of Huntington's disease and how its monogenic nature confers enormous practical advantages for translational research, including the creation of robust experimental tools, models, and assays to facilitate discovery and validation of molecular targets and drug candidates for HD. Written to support future basic research as well as drug development efforts, this volume:Covers the latest research approaches in genetics, genomics, and proteomics, including high-throughput and high-content screening. Highlights advances in the discovery and development of new drug therapies for neurodegenerative disorders. Examines the practical realities of preclinical testing, clinical testing strategies, and, ultimately, clinical usage. While the development of effective drug treatments for Huntington's disease continues to be tremendously challenging, a highly interactive and cooperative community of researchers and clinical investigators now brings us to the threshold of potential breakthroughs in the quest for therapeutic agents. The impressive array of drug discovery resources outlined in the text holds much promise for treating this devastating disease, providing hope to long-suffering Huntington's disease patients and their families.