Given the number of exciting developments across the whole spectrum of receptor research in recent years, the editors have not restricted themselves to one particular approach or class of receptors. Thus the studies within range from G protein-coupled surface receptors, to the delivery of antisense DNA inside living cell systems. A distinguished team of contributors cover these diverse areas, identifying any difficulties likely to be encountered and appropriate steps to overcome them.Wherever appropriate, the theoretical basis of each topic is explained first so that the results emerging from the practical procedures can be fully understood. Anyone with an interest in receptor structure and function will find this book an invaluable resource.

The tachykinins represent one of the most thoroughly investigated family of neuropeptides, whose members and receptors have been characterized at the genetic and molecular level and whose pharmacology has now been advanced to the first clinical application. These exciting accomplishments and prospects are reviewed and discussed in this volume in an authoritative manner. Particular emphasis is laid on the development of selective non-peptide antagonists for all 3 tachykinin receptors and their potential as novel drugs in a variety of diseases. The approval of the first tachykinin receptor antagonist as an antiemetic drug is particularly highlighted, and the utility of tachykinin receptor antagonists in affective disorders, chronic obstructive airway disease and irritable bowel syndrome, to name a few indications, is extensively considered.

"Analyzes the role of peptides in promoting or suppressing inflammation. Thoroughly examines the therapeutic potential of key peptides, analogs, agonists, and antagonists that influence cell injury and repair."

Herbert Henri Jasper is a scientist whose research activities have initiated and encompassed many of the major themes of neuroscience. He has pioneered in single unit recording, chronic neuronal studies, neurochemistry, electroencephalography, and many other disciplines. His students now hold important positions in universities and hospitals around the world. From July 21 to 23, 1986, a symposium entitled Neurotransmitters and Cortical Function: From Molecules to Mind was held in Montreal to honor Professor Jasper and to continue his pioneering efforts. The following chapters originated in that meeting. They summarize the current v vi PREFACE status of our knowledge in some of the fields influenced by Professor Jasper. They share a focus on neurotransmitters in cortical function, where we presume higher mental events originate. Professor Jasper has made contributions to the understanding of three different classes of neuro transmitters: GABA, acetylcholine, and catecholamines. It is an interest in trying to link neu rochemical events to some aspects of complex brain function and behavior that has characterized his work, and it is this philosophy that led to the present symposium to honor him. We dedicate this volume to Professor Jasper and the integrative approach that he has fostered. The Editors Montreal Contents 1. H. H. Jasper, Neuroscientist of Our Century .......................... .