1. Nootropics and molecular mechanisms of their action
- Author
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Staněk, Petr, Novotný, Jiří, and Mrózková, Petra
- Subjects
molekulární mechanismus ,nootropics ,molecular mechanism ,nootropika - Abstract
Nootropics have become the standart in the field of treating memory impairments and decline of cognition which are still more frequent problem when we consider aging of population in the western world. To better understand the capabilities and dangers of these drugs, it is necessary to widen our knowledge of the mechanism of their action. In this thesis I focus on the nootropics with the widespread use across the world (nicotine, caffeine) and on the drugs with long clinical prescription history and deeply explored effects on the cognition (methylphenidate, modafinil, piracetam, ampakines). Some categories of substances currently in the pre-clinical studies with good potential for future utilization are also briefly mentioned. The emphasis is laid mainly on summarization of the present knowledge concerning the mechanisms of action on the level of molecules, cells and the brain as a whole. The results of preclinical and clinical studies evaluating effects of these compounds on psychological values, memory and cognition are also considered here not only for CNS pathologies correction but also regarding healthy individuals.
- Published
- 2015