Effects of nicotinic cholinergic agents on cognitive functioning inAlzheimer's and Parkinson's disease
P. Newhouse
Bok Engelsk 1996
| Utgitt | 1996
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| Omfang | Side 278- 289
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| Opplysninger | The loss of central nicotinic receptors is a neurochemical hallmarkof several degenerative brain disorders, notably Alzheimer's (AD) andParkinson's Disease (PD). Investigation of the effects of nicotinicagents in both normal and diseased individuals has produced strongevidence of the importance of the integrity of these systems fornormal cognitive functioning. Studies in our laboratory utilizing thenicotinic antagonist mecamylamine show that blockade of nicotinicreceptors produces measurable and significant cognitive impairmentsimilar in nature to deficits seen in dementing illnesses. This worksuggests that symptoms of impaired acquisition of information andshort-term storage, impaired memory consolidation, attention, visualperception, and speed may reflect nicotinic lesions. These studiesand others have suggested that nicotinic systems may be involved inthe modulation, partitioning, and maintenance of attention,especially for tasks involving working memory, e.g. Nicotinic systemsmay help constrain the focus of attention. Recent studies withnicotine in AD patients reviewed here suggest that nicotinicstimulation can improve the acquisition and retention of verbalinformation and decrease errors. Finally a review of attentionaldeficits in AD and PD is presented as a suggested target fornicotinic intervention. Further work will attempt to examine whethernicotinic augmentation effects attentional systems, mnemonic systems,or both as well as whether chronic stimulation with nicotine or novelagonists will produce clinical benefit. (C) 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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| Emner |
