Publisher's Synopsis
New light is thrown upon brain development and neurodegeneration through this special issue of 'Developmental Neuroscience'. In a unique blend of views and approaches derived from basic science, dietetics and clinical research, it focuses primarily on the effects of altered cerebral energy metabolism. The importance of recently recognized prenatal cerebral programming, together with the adequacy of the supply to the neonate of glucose and dietary lipids is emphasized. Mechanistic aspects of birth asphyxia and ischemic brain damage focusing especially upon apoptosis are presented both at macro- and at the intracellular level. The valuable contributions MRS and near infrared spectroscopy can play in defining new treatments are revealed. The important functional concept of the glial-neuronal metabolic unit is highlighted as well as how this unit responds to oxidative stress injury and nerve growth factors. This issue enhances that which was known, provokes many new questions, and stresses the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.
