The present invention provides methods for modulating mitochondrial function, modulating lesion formation in the brain, modulating neurite growth, modulating neuronal degeneration, and treating and preventing neurological diseases or disorders comprising modulating the expression of activity of PGC-1α. The present invention also provides an animal, e.g., transgenic mouse, in which the PGC-1α gene is misexpressed. Methods for identifying compounds which are capable of treating or preventing a neurological disease or disorder are also described.
