Stress induced neurodegeneration

Numerous unexpected environmental, social or pathological conditions occurring during life trigger a stress response that determine changes in all physiological systems. Although acute stress is essential for surviving, chronic, long lasting stress can be detrimental. In the present review we present data supporting the hypothesis that stress-related events are characterized by modifications of oxidative/nitrosative pathways in brain in relation to the activation of inflammatory mediators. This article reviews recent contributions addressing possible new pharmacological targets for stress-induced neuropsychiatric disorders, specially post traumatic stress syndrome. As conclusion, a new and promising possibility is opening for a possible treatment with drugs lowering the stress-induced accumulation of oxidative molecules in brain