This invention relates to a method of inhibiting neuronal cell death, including protecting neuronal cells from cell death and the effects of stress, such as high or low pH, comprising administering to the cells an effective amount of Teneurin C-terminal Associated Peptide (TCAP). The invention provides the use of TCAP to prevent and/or treat a number of brain conditions, such as hypoxia-ischemia and brain alkalosis or various brain or spinal cord injuries due to physical or physiological stresses. In one aspect the invention provides a use of TCAP to increase β-tubulin, β-actin levels in neuronal cells and/or to increase fasciculation among neuronal cells, in culture or in tissue. In another aspect, the invention provides a method of treating various pH induced neuronal conditions.