Sodium Channels and Neuronal Hyperexcitability

Over the past few years there has been very important progress in the sodium channel field. We now have a good understanding of the molecular structure of these channels, of how they work, how many of them there are, and the mechanisms that restrict their expression to particular cell types. Importantly, we are beginning to understand how the expression of, and properties of these channels are modulated in various pathological states, particularly those involving neuronal hyperexcitability (such as chronic pain), and are in a position to develop therapeutic strategies based on the restoration of normal sodium channel properties. This book brings together leading researchers working on these topics to discuss recent advances in this field. Particular attention is given to the clinical applications of our knowledge of sodium channel function, especially in the fields of chronic pain and epilepsy. With broad and up–to–date coverage of this important subject, this book represents compulsory reading for basic and medical scientists with an interest in the function of sodium channels.

Chair′s Introduction: Sodium Channels and Neuronal Dysfunction –
Emerging Concepts, Converging Themes (Stephen G. Waxman).

Studies of Multimodal Gating of the Sodium Channel (Richard D. Keynes).

Molecular Basis for Function in Sodium Channels (Richard Horn).

Diverse Functions and Dynamic Expression of Neuronal Sodium Channels (Stephen G. Waxman, et al.).

Enhanced Transmission of Glutamate Current Flowing from the Dendrite to the Soma in Rat Neocortical Layer 5 Neurons (Wayne E. Crill, et al.).

Mutations of Voltage–gated Sodium Channels in Movement Disorders End Epilepsy (Miriam H. Meisler, et al.).

Channelopathies: Episodic Disorders of the Nervous System (Louis Ptacek).

Sodium Channels Gene Expression and Epilepsy (Jeffrey L. Noebels).

Subunits: Players in Neuronal Hyperexcitability? (Lori L. Isom).

Modulation of Sodium Channels in Primary Afferent Neurons (Stuart Bevan, et al.).

Sodium Channels in Primary Sensory Neurons: Relationship to Pain States (John N. Wood, et al.).

Sodium Channels an Epilepy Electrophysiology (Michael M. Segal).

Therapuetic Concentrations of Local Anaesthetics Unveil the Potential Role of Sodium Channels in Neuropathic Pain (Gary R. Strichartz, et al.).

Molecular Mechanisms of Gating and Drug Block of Sodium Channels (William A. Catterall).

Final General Discussion.

Index of Contributors.

Subject Index.