Publisher's Synopsis
Molecular neuroscience is a subfield of neuroscience. It focuses on the examination of the concepts in molecular biology in relation to the nervous system. The communication between neurons usually takes place with the help of chemical transmission across gaps between the cells, known as synapses. The topics that are covered under this discipline include molecular neuroanatomy, the molecular basis for neuroplasticity and the effects of genetics and epigenetics on neuronal development. It also focuses on the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases. Some of the common neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. The transmitted chemicals, called neurotransmitters, are responsible in the regulation of a significant fraction of vital body functions. The ever-growing need of advanced technology is the reason that has fueled the research in the field of molecular neuroscience in recent times. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. As this field is emerging at a rapid pace, the contents of this book will help the readers understand the modern concepts and applications of the subject.
