Distribution of Glast and Na+ / K+-atpase Activity in Astrocytes

It has been known for many years that glutamate system implicated in pathophysiology of several mental illnesses. The molecular mechanisms of these neurological disorders including stroke, ischemia, schizophrenia and hepatic encephalopathy are poorly understood. Therefore, this book analyzes the distribution between astroglial membrane and cytoplasm of glutamate transporter GLAST claimed to be associated with its activity and focuses on the activity of its coupling enzyme Na+/K+-ATPase. The study examines the regulation of GLAST redistribution in the presence of neuroleptic drugs, ammonia, purinergic receptor activation and Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitors and explores kinetics of Na+/K+-ATPase and characteristics of rottlerin. The work covers aspects of molecular and cellular biology, cell imaging, pharmacology and biophysical chemistry. This book intends to provide a general knowledge of the field to the readers and highlights significances of the current research with figures, graphs and images. It is a useful source for researchers and students interested in a wide range of disciplines.