Since Alois Alzheimer described the results of his postmortem studies in 1906, significant strides have been made in understanding the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Substantial evidence has accumulated indicating that diverse neurodegenerative disorders might share a common pathological mechanism: the misfolding, aggregation and accumulation of proteins (termed "amyloid") in the brain. Metal ions have long been thought to catalyze protein misfolding initiating a cascade of events resulting in oxidative damage and neurodegeneration. They have, consequently, been seen as a suitable pharmacological target. However, drugs aimed at simply removing excess metals or interfering in amyloid deposition have been unsuccessful and scientists are now forced to review the classical hypothesis. The latest advances suggest that deficiencies in protein homeostasis may lead to cell dysfunction and disease. Furthermore, small mulecules with the potential to control metal homeostasis, or metallostasis, are expected to provide the framework for the design of novel proteostasis regulators.

This exemplary new book provides an up-to-date perspective on the latest developments in this fast-moving field. Traditional views concerning the relationship between the physio-pathological cycles of copper, zinc, iron, aluminium and the evolution of life, are compared with emerging ideas in the neuroscience of metal ions.

Topics covered emphasize the importance of metals and oxidation chemistry to neuroscientists as well as providing a wider, multidisciplinary background to chemists who are attracted by these fascinating subjects.

The book will be essential reading for neuroscientists working in both industry and academia.

Content - Chapter 1 An Introduction to the Brain and its Biological Inorganic Chemistry, Chapter 2 Chemistry and Biology of Proteostasis, Chapter 3 Proteostasis as a Signaling Device and Therapeutic Target, Chapter 4 Amyloid Channel Modulation by Metal Ions, Chapter 5 Metal Ions and the Clearance of Misfolded Proteins, Chapter 6 The Inorganic Side of Alzheimer's Disease, Chapter 7 Zinc, Copper, Neurotrophic Factors and Neurodegeneration, Chapter 8 Biological Metals: Metallostasis and Alzheimer's Disease, Chapter 9 The Role of Iron in Neurodegeneration, Chapter 10 Aluminium in Neurodegenerative Diseases, Chapter 11 Metal Toxicity and Metallostasis in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Chapter 12 Copper and Prion Protein Function: A Brief Review of Emerging Theories of Neuroprotection, Subject Index