NA+ CHANNELS AS TARGETS FOR NEUROPROTECTIVE DRUGS

Drugs that block voltage-dependent Na+ channels are well known as loca l anaesthetics, antiarrhythmics and anticonvulsants. Recent studies sh ow that these compounds also provide a powerful mechanism of cytoprote ction in animal models of cerebral ischaemia, hypoxia or head trauma. In this article Charles Taylor and Brian Meldrum review evidence indic ating that Na+ channel modulators are neuroprotective and describe rec ent ideas for the molecular sites of action of voltage-dependent Na+ c hannel blockers. Clinical trials with several compounds are now in pro gress for stroke and traumatic head injury, and the therapeutic potent ial for this group of compounds is discussed.