Main description:

An engagingly written, vibrantly illustrated reference that expertly links neurobiology, clinical psychiatry, and neurology

Molecular Neuropharmacology first reviews the fundamental biochemistry of the functioning nervous system and then describes in clear, concise and consistent terms how nerve cells communicate with one another through numerous types of neurotransmitters involving amino acids, monoamines, neuropeptides, and neurotrophic factors, among several others. The neuropharmacology and neural circuits that underlie complex behaviors as well as major neural disorders are then discussed as are the drugs used to treat those conditions. In this final section, the authors use the concepts presented in the first two sections to explain how irregularities in the biochemistry of neuronal interactions can lead to a wide array of clinical manifestations.

Key points begin every chapter for a brief overview. Each chapter is packed with figures, tables and text boxes (presented on every page and accessible with clear color coding). More than 300 detailed diagrams provide specific information on receptor and drug families, biosynthetic and metabolic pathways, and interactions between the nervous system and the rest of the body. Simple and elegant, these illustrations are rich enough in content to serve as brief overviews of each chapter when viewed alone.

Features

• NEW chapter on neuroinflammation
• All chemical structure illustrations have been redrawn and improved
• Fully updated to reflect the latest breakthroughs and new drugs
• The best written and most easily understood work on the subject