| abstract |
The invention relates to the field of biology, genetics and medicine. In particular, the invention relates to novel methods for the detection, characterisation and/or treatment (or management) of neurodegenerative pathologies. The invention also relates to methods for the identification or screening of compounds active in the aforementioned pathologies. The invention further relates to the compounds, genes, cells, plasmids or compositions which are used to carry out the above-mentioned methods. The invention is based on the identification of the role of phosphodiesterase 4B, the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) and GABA(A)-type GABA receptors in neurodegenerative pathologies. In addition, the invention outlines the use of same as therapeutic, diagnostic or experimental markers or targets for said disorders. |