Neuroprotective Actions and Possible Underlying Molecular Mechanisms of Valproate / 中国药理学通报

Valproate (VPA) has long been used for the treatment of bipolar mood disorder. VPA is effective in control of mania and depression. Recent studies have demonstrated that VPA has profound neuroprotective effects in against various apoptotic stimuli. Moreover, VPA can promote neurogenesis, neuronal proliferation and differentiation. Although intensive research has been dedicated to VPA′s neuroprotection, the molecular mechanisms by which VPA protects neurons are still not fully understood. In this paper, recent progresses in the study of VPA′s neuroprotection and underlying mechanism are reviewed.