Neuroprotection in vitro and in vivo by cell membrane-permeant Ca2+ chelators

1. A method of attenuating excitotoxic and hypoxic/ischaemic neurodegeneration in vitro and in vivo using cell-permeant Ca(2+)-chelating agents is described. 2. The mechanism of neuroprotection may depend on both pre- and post-synaptic effects on intracellular Ca2+ dynamics. 3. This method is unique, because it targets Ca2+ ions, the presumed triggers of neurodegeneration, rather than a specific cellular receptor.