Opioid System Functional Regulation in Neurological Disease Management

There is increasing evidence to suggest a role for the opioid system in the control of pathophysiology of neurological disorders (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, hypoxia, and autism). Resuscitation of the altered expression of the opioid system in various neurological disorders is of therapeutic importance. Such treatment may be beneficial in ameliorating the clinical symptoms of the disorder. This Mini-Review provides a brief update on opioid system regulation in neurological disorders and focuses on the opioids' pharmacological importance. (C) 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.