[Neuroprotective mechanisms of adenosine action on CNS neurons].

Adenosine is known to play a significant role as modulator of neuronal activity. Extracellular levels of adenosine increase during ischaemia. Adenosine has been reported to have beneficial effects against neurodegenerative diseases, although the mechanisms are not fully clarified. Adenosine A1 receptors are found on neurons and presumably involved in the regulation of the release of excitatory amino acids. Using adenosine kinase inhibitors and novel A1 agonists with potent CNS effects and diminished influence on the cardiovascular system offers therapeutic potential to the treatment of neurodegenerative brain disorders. Recently deleterious effects have been reported following the activation of A2A and A3 adenosine receptor subtypes. The selective A2A receptor antagonists have been demonstrated to markedly reduce cell death after brain ischaemia in the rat. This paper discusses the possible role of adenosine receptor subtypes and their agonists or antagonists in neurodegenerative diseases treatment.