<p><i>The Synapse</i> summarizes recent advances in cellular and molecular mechanisms of synaptic transmission and provides new insights into neuronal plasticity and the cellular basis of neurological diseases. </p> <ul><li>Part 1 provides an in-depth look at structural differences and distribution of various pre- and post-synaptic proteins found at glutamatergic synapses.</li><li>Part 2 is dedicated to dendritic spines and their associated perisynaptic glia, which together constitute the tripartite synapse. The spines are portrayed as major sites for calcium sequestration and local protein synthesis.</li><li>Part 3 highlights the important regional and cellular differences between glutamatergic transmission and that of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and acetylcholine that are commonly found in axon terminals without synaptic membrane specializations.</li><li>Part 4 provides an overview of the synapse from the time of formation to degeneration under the powerful influence of aging or hormonal decline that leads to severe deficits in cognitive function.</li></ul> <p>Each chapter is illustrated with drawings and images derived from calcium imaging, electron microscopic immunolabeling, or electrophysiology. This book is a valuable reference for neuroscientists and clinical neurologists in both research and clinical settings.</p><ul><li>A comprehensive reference focused on the structure and function of the synapse</li><li>Covers the links between the synapse and neural plasticity and the cellular basis of neurologic disease</li><li>Detailed coverage of dendritic spines and associated perisynaptic glia—the tripartite synapse</li><li>Includes in-depth coverage of synapse degeneration due to aging or hormonal decline related to severe cognitive impairment</li></ul>