Understanding the function and diseases of the nervous system with a view to treating problems effectively has long been a major concern of neurobiologists and clinicians. The recent rapid development of molecular biology investigatory techniques has facilitated major advances in this field and the aim of this book is to provide an up-to-date review of recent findings on neurological disorders with particular emphasis on how an understanding of molecular processes can contribute to an understanding of the aetiology and mechanisms of disease causation. An examination of normal function provides the basis for a discussion of dysfunction including the affects of pharmacological agents and toxic insults. The broad-ranging coverage includes: cell membranes and ionmotive systems; molecular biology of receptors; ion channels; metabolic aspects; magnetic resonance, spectroscopic and positron emission tomographic studies of neurological disorders; regulation of cerebral microcirculation; brain ischaemia and its treatment; and neurotoxicity and xenobiotic agents. Deriving from an international meeting held in Sasano, Bari, Italy in September 1989, which included a workshop on mitochondrial encephalomyopthies, and written by an international team of experts, this topical book provides a good combination of molecular and clinical information and a strong indication of the areas in which further research is needed. It should be a vital reference source for biochemists, molecular biologists, neurobiologists, pharmacologists and neurologists. This book should be of interest to research workers in biochemistry, molecular biology, neurobiology, pharmacology and clinicians in neurology and psychiatry.