This invention is directed to a novel method of treating neurodegenerative disorders and diseases. Another, related aspect of this invention is directed to a screening method of identifying compounds that can be used to treat neurodegenerative disorders and diseases. The foregoing aspects of the invention particularly relate to neurodegenerative disorders and diseases have degeneration of neuronal axons as part of their pathologies. The method of treatment involves administering a pharmaceutical formulation that comprises a compound or mixture of compounds that inhibits one or more intracellular signaling mechanism that regulate axon degeneration or growth cone collapse. The screening method aspect of the invention identifies test compounds that can be used for the treatment or prevention of neurodegenerative disorders based on the test compounds ability to inhibit axon degeneration or growth cone collapse.
