Other Pharmacological Therapies: Investigational Antiepileptic Drugs, Animal Models of Epilepsy, Hormonal Therapy, Immunotherapy

SummaryIntroduction.An increasing body of evidence points to an important role of neuroinflammatory processes in the pathomechanism of epilepsy. This hypothesis is mainly supported by data showing an increase of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and glia activation in animal models of epilepsy and in brain tissue of epileptic patients. On the other hand, less emphasis has been put on pharmacological verification of this hypothesis.Aim.The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge on potential usefulness of microglia regulators and anti-inflammatory agents in designing antiepileptic/antiepileptogenic drugs, with the primary mechanism of action based on the inhibition of neuroinflammation.Methods.We reviewed PubMed and MEDLINE databases to select publications in the topic: epilepsy, neuroinflammation, microglia and microglia regulators with antiepileptic properties. We searched the databases up to April 2017 with no date restrictions.Review and Discussion.In the present paper, we will discuss new concepts of epileptogenesis which focus not only on changes in neurons but also take into consideration the role of activation of glial cells: microglia and astrocytes. Neuroinflammation, mainly through increased production of pro-inflammatory factors such as cytokines or chemokines, may play an important role in the development of epilepsy. Drugs regulating glial cells activation and consequently inflammatory status in the central nervous system have beneficial effects in different animal models of epilepsy as well as in clinical study in patients. The most promising compound seems to be minocycline which in some studies has been shown to possess antiepileptogenetic action. On the other hand, some antiepileptic drugs exhibit marked anti-inflammatory potency.Conclusions.There are much data to suggest that there is significant opportunity for designing new antiepileptic drugs whose primary mechanism of action entails the inhibition of neuroinflammatory processes.

Download Full-text

The Screening models for antiepileptic drugs: A Review

Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics ◽

10.22270/jddt.v11i2-s.4809 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (2-S) ◽

pp. 175-178

Author(s):

Pooja Popat Gaikwad ◽

Vishal S. Adak ◽

Rajkumar V. Shete

Keyword(s):

Animal Models ◽

Antiepileptic Drugs ◽

Unmet Needs ◽

Safety Issue ◽

Ethanolic Extract ◽

Maximal Electroshock ◽

Keywords Epilepsy ◽

Mes Test ◽

Animal Models Of Epilepsy ◽

Models Of Epilepsy

Considering the prevalence of epilepsy and the problems associated with currently available antiepileptic drugs like side effects, resistance, safety issue and high cost, herbal medicine with fewer complications could be very appropriate alternative. Therefore in the present study, we have examined the antiepileptic properties of ethanolic extract of leaves in mice using maximal electroshock seizers (MES)test, Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), induced seizures, strychnine induced convulsion, Isoniazid-induced convulsions, Picrotoxin-induced convulsions, Kainic acid (KA) model etc.There is increased concern on agents for epilepsy disease modification and prevention. To solve these unmet needs, the research scientist must have a thorough knowledge of available animal models of epilepsy so that he can pick up the best model for his research. In this article, we are reviewing the diversity of animal models of epilepsy and their implications in antiepileptic drug discovery. Keywords: Epilepsy, animal model, seizures,

Download Full-text