With the extension of the longevity of man, the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease is increasing steadily each year. It has now become apparent that factors associated with our lifestyle may contribute substantially to the development of these disorders. The proposed symposium therefore wishes to highlight how some of these factors, either directly or indirectly, which create an environment that can impact neuron function both negatively and positively.
The deleterious effects of early life stress on neuronal resilience later in life
Vivienne Russell, University of Cape Town , South Africa
The impact of metals as environmental toxins on neuron integrity
Musa Mabandla, University of KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa
The damaging effects of recreational drugs
Nilesh Patel, University of Nairobi , Kenya
The effects elicited by the chronic use of therapeutic drugs
Willie Daniels, University of KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa
The possible beneficial effects of exercise for neurodegenerative disorders.
Michael Zigmond, University of Pittsburgh , USA .