Presenting the latest research in glial cell function gleaned from new techniques in imaging and molecular biology, this second edition covers multiple aspects of glial cells, including morphology, physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, pathology, and their involvement in the pathophysiology of neurological diseases. The book examines the interactions between glial cells and neurons during development, adulthood, and senescence, followed by specific examples of directly mediated glial neurotoxicity. It includes coverage of miscellaneous topics in glial physiology/biochemistry and advances in current knowledge and understanding of glial physiology and biochemistry.

Michael Aschner, Lucio G. Costa

Neural Precursor Cells and Toxicant Action: Addressing the Analysis of Low-Level Toxicant Exposure. The Role of Microglia in Neurotoxicity. Schwann Cell Neurotoxicity. Function of Astrocyte Cytochrome P450 in Control of Xenobiotic Metabolism. The Reactive Astrocyte. Molecular Mechanisms of Glutamate and Glutamine Transport in Astrocytes. Neuronal-Astrocytic interactions (TCA cycling). Cytokines in Neuronal-Glial Interaction. Signaling Mechanisms Underlying Toxicant-Induced Gliosis. Astrocyte Cellular Swelling: Mechanisms and Relevance to Brain Edema. Astrocyte Metallothioneins and Physiological and Pathological Consequences to Brain Injury. Peripheral Benzodiazepine Receptor Imaging in Glial Cells: Molecular Sensors of Brain Pathology. Astrocyte-Neuronal Interaction and Oxidative Injury: Rose of Glia in Neurotoxicity. Astrocytes in Acute Energy Deprivation Syndromes. The Role of Multiple Drug Resistance in Neuroglial Survival: Lessons from Human Epileptic Brain. Pathogenesis of HIV Associated Dementia and Multiple Sclerosis: Role of Microglia and Astrocytes. Possible Detrimental Role of Astrocytic Activation During the Subacute Phase of Permanent Regional Cerebral Ischemia in the Rat. Role of Microglia and Astrocytes in Alzheimer's Disease. Developmental Efficts of Xenobiotics on Thyroid Hormone Regulation in the CNS with Emphasis on Glial Function. Astrocytes in Ammonia Neurotoxicity: A Target, A Mediator, and a Shield. Alcohol and Glia in the Developing Brain. Zinc Homeostatic Proteins and Glia. Iron and Glial Toxicity. Astroglia and Methylmercury Neurotoxicity. Manganese. Astroglia and Lead Neurotoxicity. Role of Glia in MPTP Toxicity and Parkinson's Disease.