Stress-related regulation of the kynurenine pathway: Relevance to neuropsychiatric and degenerative disorders
Citation:
O'Farrell, K., Harkin, A., Stress-related regulation of the kynurenine pathway: Relevance to neuropsychiatric and degenerative disorders, Neuropharmacology, 112, 2017, 307 - 323Download Item:
1-s2.0-S0028390815302008-main.pdf (Published (author's copy) - Peer Reviewed) 1.115Mb
Abstract:
The kynurenine pathway (KP), which is activated in times of stress and infection has been implicated in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Activation of this tryptophan metabolising pathway results in the production of neuroactive metabolites which have the potential to interfere with normal neuronal functioning which may contribute to altered neuronal transmission and the emergence of symptoms of these brain disorders. This review investigates the involvement of the KP in a range of neurological disorders, examining recent in vitro, in vivo and clinical discoveries highlights evidence to indicate that the KP is a potential therapeutic target in both neurodegenerative and stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. Furthermore, this review identifies gaps in our knowledge with regard to this field which are yet to be examined to lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the role of KP activation in brain health and disease.
Author's Homepage:
http://people.tcd.ie/aharkinDescription:
PUBLISHED
Author: Harkin, Andrew
Type of material:
Journal ArticleSeries/Report no:
Neuropharmacology112
Availability:
Full text availableKeywords:
Stress; Inflammation; Kynurenine pathway; Neurodegenerative diseases; Psychiatric disordersDOI:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.12.004Licences: