Plasticity of AMPA and NMDA receptor-mediated epileptiform activity in a chronic model of temporal lobe epilepsy

A Ketogenic Diet may Improve Cognitive Function in Rats with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy by Regulating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Synaptic Plasticity

A ketogenic diet (KD) is often used in the treatment of refractory epilepsy. Many studies have found that it also has a positive impact on cognitive comorbidities, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. In many disease models, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and synaptic plasticity is considered a new therapeutic target for improving cognitive impairment, and it has become a research focus in recent years. Recently, studies have found that a KD has a certain regulatory effect on both ERS and synaptic plasticity, but this result has not been confirmed in epilepsy. To investigate the effect of a KD on ERS and synaptic plasticity. In this study, a rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) induced by lithium chloride-pilocarpine was used. After the model was successfully established, the rats in each group were fed a normal diet or a KD for 28 days, and the effect of a KD on the latency and seizure frequency of spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRSs) was observed via video monitoring. Subsequently, a Morris water maze was used to evaluate the spatial learning and memory abilities of the rats in each group; the ultrastructure of the ER and the synapses of the hippocampus were observed by transmission electron microscopy, and the dendritic spine density of the hippocampus was analysed by Golgi staining. Long-term potentiation (LTP) was used to detect the synaptic plasticity of the rats' hippocampi, and the expression of ERS-related proteins and synapse-related proteins was detected by Western blotting. A KD effectively reduced the frequency of SRSs in rats with TLE and improved their learning and memory impairment. Further investigations found that a KD inhibited the up-regulation of glucose-regulated protein 78, phospho-protein kinase-like ER kinase, phosphorylated α subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2, activating transcription factor 4 and C/EBP homologous protein expression in the hippocampi of rats with TLE and protected the ultrastructure of the neuronal ER, suggesting that a KD suppressed excessive ERS induced by epilepsy. Concurrently, we also found that a KD not only improved the synaptic ultrastructure and increased the density of dendritic spines in rats with TLE but also reversed the epilepsy-induced LTP deficit to some extent. More importantly, the expression of postsynaptic density protein 95, synaptotagmin-1 and synaptosomal-associated protein 25 in the hippocampi of rats with epilepsy was significantly increased after KD intervention. The study findings indicate that a KD improves learning and memory impairment in rats with epilepsy, possibly by regulating ERS and synaptic plasticity.

Dopamine and Glutamate Crosstalk Worsen the Seizure Outcome in TLE-HS Patients

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), accompanied by hippocampal sclerosis (HS), is the most common form of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Nearly 20% of the patients showed seizure recurrence even after surgery, and the reasons are yet to be understood. Dysregulation of neurotransmitters is evident during seizures, which can induce excitotoxicity. The present study focused on understanding the molecular changes associated with Dopamine (DA) and glutamate signaling and their possible impact on the persistence of excitotoxicity and seizure recurrence in patients with drug-resistant TLE-HS who underwent surgery. According to the International League against Epilepsy (ILAE) suggested classification for seizure outcomes, the patients (n = 26) were classified as class 1 (no seizures) and class 2 (persistent seizures) using the latest post-surgery follow-up data to understand the prevalent molecular changes in seizure-free and seizure-recurrence patient groups. Our study uses thioflavin T assay, western blot analysis, immunofluorescence assays, and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays. We have observed a substantial increase in the DA and glutamate receptors that promote excitotoxicity. Patients who had seizure recurrence showed a significant increase in (pNR2B, p < 0.009; and pGluR1, p < 0.01), protein phosphatase1γ (PP1γ; p < 0.009), protein kinase A (PKAc; p < 0.001) and dopamine-cAMP regulated phospho protein32 (pDARPP32T34; p < 0.009) which are critical for long-term potentiation (LTP), excitotoxicity compared to seizure-free patients and controls. A significant increase in D1R downstream kinases like PKA (p < 0.001), pCAMKII (p < 0.009), and Fyn (p < 0.001) was observed in patient samples compared to controls. Anti-epileptic DA receptor D2R was found to be decreased in ILAE class 2 (p < 0.02) compared to class 1. Since upregulation of DA and glutamate signaling supports LTP and excitotoxicity, we believe it could impact seizure recurrence. Further studies about the impact of DA and glutamate signaling on the distribution of PP1γ at postsynaptic density and synaptic strength could help us understand the seizure microenvironment in patients. Dopamine, Glutamate signal crosstalk. Diagram representing the PP1γ regulation by NMDAR negative feedback inhibition signaling (green circle-left) and D1R signal (red circle-middle) domination over PP1γ though increased PKA, pDARPP32T34, and supports pGluR1, pNR2B in seizure recurrent patients. D1R-D2R hetero dimer activation (red circle-right) increases cellular Ca2+ and pCAMKIIα activation. All these events lead to calcium overload in HS patients and excitotoxicity, particularly in patients experiencing recurrent seizures.

Role of NMDA receptors in the pathophysiology and treatment of status epilepticus

This review considers the role of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors in the pathophysiology and treatment of status epilepticus (SE). NMDA receptors play a critical role in sustaining SE by mediating the plasticity of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-_A and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, neuronal loss, and epileptogenesis. In parallel, there is growing interest in using the NMDA receptor antagonist ketamine in the treatment of refractory SE. Ketamine has proved to be safe for use in refractory and super-refractory SE in patients. The pilot studies also suggest that ketamine may be efficacious for termination of refractory SE.

Effects of spider venom toxin PWTX-I (6-Hydroxytrypargine) on the central nervous system of rats

The 6-hydroxytrypargine (6-HT) is an alkaloidal toxin of the group of tetrahydro-β-carbolines (THβC) isolated from the venom of the colonial spider Parawixia bistriata. These alkaloids are reversible inhibitors of the monoamine-oxidase enzyme (MAO), with hallucinogenic, tremorigenic and anxiolytic properties. The toxin 6-HT was the first THβC chemically reported in the venom of spiders; however, it was not functionally well characterized up to now. The action of 6-HT was investigated by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) and intravenous (i.v.) applications of the toxin in adult male Wistar rats, followed by the monitoring of the expression of fos-protein, combined with the use of double labeling immunehistochemistry protocols for the detection of some nervous receptors and enzymes related to the metabolism of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system (CNS). We also investigated the epileptiform activity in presence of this toxin. The assays were carried out in normal hippocampal neurons and also in a model of chronic epilepsy obtained by the use of neurons incubated in free-magnesium artificial cerebro-spinal fluid (ACSF). Trypargine, a well known THβC toxin, was used as standard compound for comparative purposes. Fos-immunoreactive cells (fos-ir) were observed in hypothalamic and thalamic areas, while the double-labeling identified nervous receptors of the sub-types rGlu2/3 and NMR1, and orexinergic neurons. The 6-HT was administrated by perfusion and ejection in "brain slices" of hippocampus, inducing epileptic activity after its administration; the toxin was not able to block the epileptogenic crisis observed in the chronic model of the epilepsy, suggesting that 6-HT did not block the overactive GluRs responsible for this epileptic activity.

Time-dependent changes in learning ability and induction of long-term potentiation in the lithium-pilocarpine-induced epileptic mouse model

To explore the mechanism underlying the development of learning deficits in patients with epilepsy, we generated a mouse model for temporal lobe epilepsy by intraperitoneally injecting mice with pilocarpine with lithium chloride, and investigated time-dependent changes in both contextual fear memory of those model mice and long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampal CA1 neurons 1 day, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks after the onset of status epilepticus (SE). Fear memory formation did not change 1 day and 2 weeks after the onset of SE, but was significantly reduced after 6 weeks. Induction of LTP was enhanced 1 day after the onset of SE, but returned to the normal level 2 weeks later, and was almost completely attenuated after 6 weeks. The enhancement of LTP was accompanied by an increase in output responses of excitatory postsynaptic potentials, whereas suppression of LTP was accompanied by alteration of the ratio of paired pulse facilitation. These results indicate that time-dependent changes of LTP induction have a causal role in the development of learning deficits of epilepsy patients.

Kindling in the early postnatal period: Effects on the dynamics of age-related changes in electrophysiological characteristics of hippocampal neurons

The effects of chronic administration of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) during early ontogenesis (from postnatal day 14) on the dynamics of age-related changes in electrophysiological characteristics of rat hippocampal slices were studied. Unlike the situation in adult animals, convulsive activity did not develop in rat pups in response to repeated injections. Comparison of the amplitude characteristics of total monosynaptic responses of neurons in hippocampal field CA1 to application of single and paired (separated by 70 msec) stimulation of Schäffer collaterals during the period of maximally intense hippocampal synaptogenesis (at weeks 2-3 of postnatal development) revealed no significant differences between the control group (administration of isotonic saline) and the group given PTZ. The level of suppression of facilitation in paired-pulse stimulation with a short interstimulus interval (15 msec) was significantly less in hippocampal slices from rat pups from the PTZ group. However, as compared with the passive control, the direction of rearrangements in the two experimental group was essentially the same. Nonetheless, regular administration of PTZ during the period of maximally intense hippocampal maturation affected the development of its characteristics. This was not only apparent as a deficiency of inhibitory processes. Increases in the intensity of test stimuli applied to hippocampal slices from PTZ-treated rat pups at 27-48 days of age led to relatively lower response amplitudes as compared with those seen in hippocampal slices from control (given isotonic saline) rats of the same age. The level of facilitation in paired-pulse stimulation with an interstimulus interval of 70 msec showed no difference, decreasing to similar extents in both groups as compared with the passive control group. In addition, hippocampal slices from the PTZ group showed significant decreases in the magnitude of long-term potentiation. Changes occurring in the hippocampus after regular administration of PTZ did not correlate with the development of convulsive activity. The only significant relationship involving the intensity of convulsions was with the increase (compared with the normal for age) in the amplitudes of responses to minimal-intensity test stimuli.

Antiepileptic effect of acylpolyaminetoxin JSTX-3 on rat hippocampal CA1 neurons in vitro

The Joro spider toxin (JSTX-3), derived from Nephila clavata, has been found to block glutamate excitatory activity. Epilepsy has been studied in vitro, mostly on rat hippocampus, through brain slices techniques. The aim of this study is to verify the effect of the JSTX-3 on the epileptiform activity induced by magnesium-free medium in rat CA1 hippocampal neurons. Experiments were performed on hippocampus slices of control and pilocarpine-treated Wistar rats, prepared and maintained in vitro. Epileptiform activity was induced through omission of magnesium from the artificial cerebrospinal fluid (0-Mg2+ ACSF) superfusate and iontophoretic application of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA). Intracellular recordings were obtained from CA1 pyramidal neurons both of control and epileptic rats. Passive membrane properties were analyzed before and after perfusion with the 0-Mg2+ ACSF and the application of toxin JSTX-3. During the ictal-like activity, the toxin JSTX-3 was applied by pressure ejection, abolishing this activity. This effect was completely reversed during the washout period when the slices were formerly perfused with artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) and again with 0-Mg2+ ACSF. Our results suggest that the toxin JSTX-3 is a potent blocker of induced epileptiform activity.

Herpes simplex virus type 1 inoculation enhances hippocampal excitability and seizure susceptibility in mice

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is the major pathogen related to epilepsy. However, little is known about the pathogenesis of HSV-1-associated epilepsy. Here, we report that corneal inoculation of mice with HSV-1 induces acute spontaneous behavioural and electrophysiological seizures and chronically increases hippocampal excitability and seizure susceptibility. In slices from infected mice, the surviving hippocampal CA3 pyramidal neurons exhibited a more depolarizing resting membrane potential concomitant with an increase in membrane input resistance. They also had a lower threshold for generating synchronized bursts and a decrease in the amplitude of afterhyperpolarization (AHP) than did controls. These results suggest that a direct change in the excitability of the hippocampal CA3 neuronal network could play an important role in facilitating the development of acute seizures and subsequent epilepsy.

Increased dendritic excitability in hippocampal ca1 in vivo in the kainic acid model of temporal lobe epilepsy: a study using current source density analysis

We used kainic acid in rats as an animal model of temporal lobe epilepsy, and studied the synaptic transmission in hippocampal subfield CA1 of urethane-anesthetized rats in vivo. Dendritic currents were revealed by field potential mapping, using a single micropipette or a 16-channel silicon probe, followed by current source density analysis. We found that the population excitatory postsynaptic potentials in the basal dendrites and distal apical dendrites of CA1 were increased in kainate-treated as compared with control rats following paired-pulse, but not single-pulse, stimulation of CA3b or medial perforant path. In contrast, the trisynaptic midapical dendritic response in CA1 following medial perforant path stimulation was decreased in kainate-treated as compared with control rats. Increased coupling between excitatory postsynaptic potential and the population spike in CA1 was found after kainate seizures. Short-latency, presumably monosynaptic CA1 population spikes following medial perforant path stimulation was found in kainate-treated but not control rats. An enhancement of dendritic excitability was evidenced by population spikes that invaded into or originated from the distal apical dendrites of CA1 in kainate-treated but not control rats. Reverberation of hippocampo-entorhinal activity was evidenced by recurrent excitation of CA1 following CA3b stimulation in kainate-treated but not control rats. Blockade of inhibition by intraventricularly administered bicuculline induced excitatory potentials in CA1 that were stronger and more prolonged in kainate-treated than control rats. The bicuculline-induced excitation was mainly blocked by non-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists. We conclude that kainate seizures induced disinhibition in CA1 that unveiled excitation at the basal and distal apical dendrites, resulting in enhancement of the direct entorhinal cortex to CA1 input and reverberations via the hippocampo-entorhinal loop. These changes in the output of the hippocampus from CA1 are likely detrimental to the behavioral functions of the hippocampus and they may contribute to increased seizure susceptibility after kainate seizures.

The role of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in mechanisms underlying neuronal hyperexcitability induced by repeated, brief exposure to hypoxia or high K+ in rat hippocampal slices

Analysis of extracellular recordings of evoked excitatory postsynaptic potentials and population spikes from rat hippocampal slices has previously revealed that repeated, brief exposures to high extracellular K(+) or to episodes of hypoxia induce a sustained (more than 3 h) hyperexcitability of CA1 pyramidal neurons accompanied with epileptiform activity which was dependent on activation of L-type Ca(2+) channels and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors. Using in vitro phosphorylation assay we have found the significant increase of Ca(2+)-independent activity of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in CA1 region of hippocampal slices 60 min after the high extracellular K(+) and 60-80 min after the hypoxic episodes. These data suggest possible involvement of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in Ca(2+)-dependent mechanisms of the maintenance phase of the observed epileptiform activity.

Neuronal hyperexcitability induced by repeated brief episodes of hypoxia in rat hippocampal slices: involvement of ionotropic glutamate receptors and L-type Ca(2+) channels

Repeated exposures of rat hippocampal slices to short episodes of hypoxia induce a sustained decrease in the threshold of the development of stimulus-evoked epileptiform discharges in CA1 pyramidal neurons. We have previously demonstrated that the K(+)(o)-induced hyperexcitability required functional L-type voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels and NMDA-receptors, but was independent of AMPA/kainate-receptor activation. As hypoxia/ischaemia can lead to increased K(+)(o), the epileptiform activity observed after exposure to these challenges could also result from high K(+)(o). The purpose of this study was: (i) to determine whether ionotropic glutamate receptors and L-type Ca(2+) channels are involved in the development of epileptiform activity induced by repeated exposures of hippocampal slices to hypoxia; and (ii) to compare the properties of hypoxia- and high K(+)(o)-induced hyperexcitability. Population spike of presynaptic fibres with field excitatory postsynaptic potential from the stratum radiatum, and population spike of CA1 pyramidal neurons from the stratum pyramidale, were recorded simultaneously in the CA1 area of rat hippocampal slices in response to electrical stimulation of the Schaffer collateral/commissural fibres. Repeated, brief hypoxic episodes induced a sustained decrease in the threshold for development of evoked epileptiform discharges that was associated with long-term potentiation of the CA3-CA1 synapses, but without EPSP-spike potentiation (i.e. in contrast to high K(+)(o)-induced hyperexcitability). The selective antagonist of NMDA receptors, D-APV (25 microM), and the selective blocker of L-type Ca(2+) channels, nifedipine (10 microM) depressed the development of hypoxia-induced hyperexcitability. However, in contrast to high K(+)(o)-induced hyperexcitability, hypoxia-induced hyperexcitability was also blocked by the AMPA/kainite-receptor antagonist, CNQX (5 microM). The present findings confirm that repeated, brief episodes of hypoxia, like exposure to high extracellular K(+), can induce a pro-epileptic state in the CA1 neuronal network, but that the mechanisms leading to hyperexcitability are different for the two stimuli.

Experimental localization of Kv1 family voltage-gated K+ channel alpha and beta subunits in rat hippocampal formation

In the mammalian hippocampal formation, dendrotoxin-sensitive voltage-gated K(+) (Kv) channels modulate action potential propagation and neurotransmitter release. To explore the neuroanatomical basis for this modulation, we used in situ hybridization, coimmunoprecipitation, and immunohistochemistry to determine the subcellular localization of the Kv channel subunits Kv1.1, Kv1.2, Kv1.4, and Kvbeta2 within the adult rat hippocampus. Although mRNAs encoding all four of these Kv channel subunits are expressed in the cells of origin of each major hippocampal afferent and intrinsic pathway, immunohistochemical staining suggests that the encoded subunits are associated with the axons and terminal fields of these cells. Using an excitotoxin lesion strategy, we explored the subcellular localization of these subunits in detail. We found that ibotenic acid lesions of the entorhinal cortex eliminated Kv1.1 and Kv1.4 immunoreactivity and dramatically reduced Kv1.2 and Kvbeta2 immunoreactivity in the middle third of the dentate molecular layer, indicating that these subunits are located on axons and terminals of entorhinal afferents. Similarly, ibotenic acid lesions of the dentate gyrus eliminated Kv1.1 and Kv1.4 immunoreactivity in the stratum lucidum of CA3, indicating that these subunits are located on mossy fiber axons. Kainic acid lesions of CA3 dramatically reduced Kv1.1 immunoreactivity in the stratum radiatum of CA1-CA3, indicating that Kv1.1 immunoreactivity in these subfields is associated with the axons and terminals of the Schaffer collaterals. Together with the results of coimmunoprecipitation analyses, these data suggest that action potential propagation and glutamate release at excitatory hippocampal synapses are directly modulated by Kv1 channel complexes predominantly localized on axons and nerve terminals.

Changes in neuronal excitability and synaptic function in a chronic model of temporal lobe epilepsy

Long-term potentiation and depression of glutamatergic synaptic responses are accompanied by an increased firing probability of neurons in response to a given excitatory input. This property, named excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation, has also been described in epileptic tissue and has pro-epileptic consequences. In this study, we show that excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation can be reversed in the kainic acid lesioned rat hippocampus, a chronic model of temporal lobe epilepsy. Simultaneous in vitro extracellular recordings in stratum radiatum and stratum pyramidale were performed in the CA1 area of the kainic acid lesioned rat hippocampal slices. Fifteen minutes, application of the K(+) channel blocker tetraethylammonium resulted in excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation (measured 90min after the start of the washout period) which could be reversed by subsequent low-frequency or tetanic stimuli. Excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation and its subsequent reversal by an electrical conditioning stimulus were found to have a N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-independent component. Tetraethylammonium treatment also resulted in excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation of pharmacologically isolated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated responses which could be reversed by subsequent low-frequency or tetanic stimuli. We conclude that excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation can be reversed in epileptic tissue, even in the absence of synaptic plasticity. These results suggest the presence of endogenous regulatory mechanisms which are able to decrease cell excitability.

Epileptiform activity and EPSP-spike potentiation induced in rat hippocampal CA1 slices by repeated high-K(+): involvement of ionotropic glutamate receptors and Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II

We have previously demonstrated that repeated brief increases in extracellular K(+) (K(+)(o)) induce a hyperexcitability in CA1 pyramidal cells that persists for a long time after the final application of K(+) [Neurosci. Lett. 223 (1997) 177; Epilepsy Research (2000) 75]. This epileptiform activity, which was associated with a lasting excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP)-spike potentiation, presented some of the characteristic features of traditional in vivo kindling. We have also found that Ca(2+) influx through L-type voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channels is essential for the development of both in vitro kindling and EPSP-spike potentiation. The aims of this study were to investigate the involvement of ionotropic glutamate receptors, especially those of the NMDA subtype, and the requirement for Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in these phenomena. Field EPSPs with presynaptic fibre volleys from the stratum radiatum, and population spikes from the stratum pyramidale, were recorded in the CA1 area of rat hippocampal slices in response to electrical stimulation of the Schaffer collateral/commissural fibres. Repeated (three episodes) brief (30 s) increases in extracellular K(+) induced a sustained decrease in the threshold for development of evoked epileptiform discharges (i.e. an in vitro kindling-like state) and a lasting potentiation of the EPSP-spike transfer in CA1 pyramidal neurons (EPSP-spike potentiation). The selective antagonist of NMDA receptors, APV (50 microM), blocked the EPSP-spike potentiation, depressed the induction phase of the in vitro kindling-like state, and blocked the maintenance phase of this state. In contrast to APV, the blockade of AMPA/kainate receptors by CNQX (10 microM) had no effect. Like APV, KN62 (3 microM), a selective membrane permeable inhibitor of CaMKII, blocked the EPSP-spike potentiation and the maintenance phase of the in vitro kindling-like state. Our previous and present results therefore demonstrate that Ca(2+) influxes through L-type voltage-dependent-and NMDA receptor-dependent-Ca(2+) channels contribute differentially to the development of an in vitro kindling-like state, and both induce EPSP-spike potentiation in CA1 hippocampal pyramidal cells in response to repeated brief increases in K(+)(o). It is suggested that these effects of intracellular Ca(2+) on the maintenance phase of the in vitro kindling-like state and EPSP-spike potentiation are mediated by CaMKII-dependent mechanisms.

Permanent reduction of seizure threshold in post-ischemic CA3 pyramidal neurons

The effects of ischemia were examined on CA3 pyramidal neurons recorded in hippocampal slices 2-4 mo after a global forebrain insult. With intracellular recordings, CA3 post-ischemic neurons had a more depolarized resting membrane potential but no change of the input resistance, spike threshold and amplitude, fast and slow afterhyperpolarization (AHP) or ADP, and firing properties in response to depolarizing pulses. With both field and whole-cell recordings, synaptic responses were similar in control and post-ischemic neurons. Although there were no spontaneous network-driven discharges, the post-ischemic synaptic network had a smaller threshold to generate evoked and spontaneous synchronized burst discharges. Thus lower concentrations of convulsive agents (kainate, high K(+)) triggered all-or-none network-driven synaptic events in post-ischemic neurons more readily than in control ones. Also, paired-pulse protocol generates, in post-ischemics but not controls, synchronized field burst discharges when interpulse intervals ranged from 60 to 100 ms. In conclusion, 2-4 mo after the insult, the post-ischemic CA3 pyramidal cells are permanently depolarized and have a reduced threshold to generate synchronized bursts. This may explain some neuropathological and behavioral consequences of ischemia as epileptic syndromes observed several months to several years after the ischemic insult.

Evidence for enhanced neuro-inflammatory processes in neurodegenerative diseases and the action of nitrones as potential therapeutics

A brief review is presented on observations leading to the current notions regarding neuro-inflammatory processes. The greatest focus is on Alzheimer's disease (AD) since this is where the most convincing data has been obtained. A brief summary of observations on the neuroprotective action of alpha-phenyl-tert-butyl-nitrone (PBN) as well as results of research designed to understand its mechanism of action is presented. We hypothesize that the mechanism of action of PBN involves inhibition of signal transduction processes, which are involved in the upregulation of genes mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines and H2O2 that cause formation of toxic gene products. Results from recent experiments on Kainic acid (KA) mediated brain damage are provided to suggest the validity of the in vivo action of PBN to inhibit neuro-inflammatory processes. The accumulating scientific facts are helping to provide concepts that may become the basis for novel therapeutic approaches to the treatment of several neurodegenerative diseases.

Quantitative 1H MRS in the evaluation of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy in vivo

Hippocampal metabolite concentrations were determined by localized in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) in eleven patients suffering from refractory mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE), as well as in eleven age-matched healthy volunteers, and compared with patient history, postoperative outcome and histopathology. Main results are: 1) In patients, the decrease in N-acetylaspartate (NAA) concentrations was highly significant ipsilateral, and less but still significant contralateral to the electroencephalogram-defined focus, as compared to controls. 2) The decrease in ipsilateral NAA measured preoperatively correlates with the degree of hippocampal sclerosis but 3) does not reliably predict postoperative outcome, although there is a trend toward better outcome in patients with a marked decrease of NAA. 4) Hippocampal NAA decrease (ipsi- and contralateral) is highly correlated with early onset age of epileptic seizures. 5) Among patients with similar onset age in early childhood, there is a strong association between duration of the disease and contralateral (and, though less clear-cut, ipsilateral) NAA loss. These results are concordant with the notion of a generally progressive worsening and complicating course of symptoms in poorly controlled MTLE.

Epileptiform activity and changes in field potential responses induced by low [Mg2+]0 in a genetic rat model of absence epilepsy

The genetic absence epilepsy rats of Strasbourg (GAERS) display alterations in cortical synaptic transmission possibly facilitating the generation of ictaform activity and the late development into convulsive epilepsy. We studied low Mg2+-induced epileptiform activities and their long term effects on field potentials (fp) evoked by paired pulse stimulation in hippocampal area CA1 (CA1), medial entorhinal cortex (EC) and frontal cortex (FC) in in-vitro-slice preparations from GAERS and control (NE) adult rats (6 months). Omitting Mg2+-ions from artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) caused recurrent short discharges (in CA1) and seizure-like events (in EC) in both GAERS and NE rats. Latency to onset of activity as well as discharge pattern, frequency and amplitude of such events did not differ between the two strains, neither in CA1 nor in EC. In the FC, however, epileptiform events occurred in NE rats, but not in GAERS. Field potentials in normal ACSF were similar in both strains in CA1 and FC, while they were smaller in the EC of GAERS. Low [Mg2+]0 caused long-term changes of fp only in area CA1 where the population spikes were depressed in GAERS and increased in NE rats. We concluded that susceptibility to low [Mg2+]0-induced epileptic activity in EC and hippocampal area CA1 is not higher in GAERS than in NE adult rats. However, some properties like synaptic coupling in EC and long-term changes in synaptic efficacy induced by epileptiform activity in CA1 differ from that in NE rats. Whether the particularities in GAERS may be related to kindling by absence epileptic activities will be studied in further experiments.

Molecular mechanisms that underlie structural and functional changes at the postsynaptic membrane during synaptic plasticity

The synaptic plasticity that is addressed in this review follows neurodegeneration in the brain and thus has both structural as well as functional components. The model of neurodegeneration that has been selected is the kainic acid lesioned hippocampus. Degeneration of the CA3 pyramidal cells results in a loss of the Schaffer collateral afferents innervating the CA1 pyramidal cells. This is followed by a period of structural plasticity where new synapses are formed. These are associated with changes in the numbers and shapes of spines as well as changes in the morphometry of the dendrites. It is suggested that this synaptogenesis is responsible for an increase in the ratio of NMDA to AMPA receptors mediating excitatory synaptic transmission at these synapses. Changes in the temporal and spatial properties of these synapses resulted in an altered balance between LTP and LTD. These properties together with a reduction in the inhibitory drive increased the excitability of the surviving CA1 pyramidal cells which in turn triggered epileptiform bursting activity. In this review we discuss the insights that may be gained from studies of the underlying molecular machinery. Developments in one of the collections of the cogs in this machinery has been summarized through recent studies characterizing the roles of neural recognition molecules in synaptic plasticity in the adult nervous systems of vertebrates and invertebrates. Such investigations of neural cell adhesion molecules, cadherins and amyloid precursor protein have shown the involvement of these molecules on the morphogenetic level of synaptic changes, on the one hand, and signal transduction effects, on the other. Further complex cogs are found in the forms of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL-R) family of genes and their ligands play pivotal roles in the brain development and in regulating the growth and remodelling of neurones. Evidence is discussed for their role in the maintenance of cognitive function as well as Alzheimer's. The molecular mechanisms responsible for the clustering and maintenance of transmitter receptors at postsynaptic sites are the final cogs in the machinery that we have reviewed. Postsynaptic densities (PSD) from excitatory synapses have yielded many cytoskeletal proteins including actin, spectrin, tubulin, microtubule-associated proteins and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II. Isolated PSDs have also been shown to be enriched in AMPA, kainate and NMDA receptors. However, recently, a new family of proteins, the MAGUKs (for membrane-associated guanylate kinase) has emerged. The role of these proteins in clustering different NMDA receptor subunits is discussed. The MAGUK proteins are also thought to play a role in synaptic plasticity mediated by nitric oxide (NO). Both NMDA and non-NMDA receptors are highly clustered at excitatory postsynaptic sites in cortical and hippocampal neurones but have revealed differences in their choice of molecular components. Both GABAA and glycine (Gly) receptors mediate synaptic inhibition in the brain and spinal cord. Whilst little is known about how GABAA receptors are localized in the postsynaptic membrane, considerable progress has been made towards the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of Gly receptors. It has been shown that the peripheral membrane protein gephyrin plays a pivotal role in the formation of Gly receptor clusters most likely by anchoring the receptor to the subsynaptic cytoskeleton. Evidence for the distribution as well as function of gephyrin and Gly receptors is discussed. Postsynaptic membrane specializations are complex molecular machinery subserving a multitude of functions in the proper communication between neurones. Despite the fact that only a few key players have been identified it will be a fascinating to watch the story as to how they contribute to structural and functional plasticity unfold.

Pro-epileptic changes in synaptic function can be accompanied by pro-epileptic changes in neuronal excitability

Repetitive sensory input, stroboscopic lights or repeated sounds can induce epileptic seizures in susceptible individuals. In order to understand the process we have to consider multiple factors. The output of a set of neurones is determined by the amount of excitatory synaptic input, the degree of positive feedback and their inherent electrical excitability, which can be modified by synaptic inhibition. Recent research has shown that it is possible to separate these phenomena, and that they do not always behave in unison.

Melatonin interaction with magnesium and zinc in the response of the striatum to sensorimotor cortical stimulation in the rat

The sensorimotor cortex (SMCx) sends numerous projections to the striatum. These projections are excitatory and glutamate mediated. Glutamatergic receptors, specifically those of NMDA type-receptors, are closely related to excitotoxicity. Thus, in some circumstances, an excess of Ca2+ influx through NMDA channels alters neuronal metabolism and may become lethal for the cell. Two other divalent cations, Mg2+ and Zn2+, have inhibitory effects on NMDA receptors. Magnesium ions exert a voltage-dependent block of the NMDA calcium channel, whereas zinc ions exert a voltage-independent NMDA block. In the present work, the effects of iontophoresis of Mg2+ and Zn2+ on the striatal response to SMCx stimulation were studied. Moreover melatonin, an indoleamine with anticonvulsant properties and inhibitory effects on the NMDA receptor, was also iontophorized alone or in combination with Mg2+ and Zn2+. Single pulse electrical stimulation of SMCx produced an excitatory response in the striatum. Iontophoresis of melatonin, Mg2+ and Zn2+ produced a potent attenuation of the excitatory response of the striatum to SMCx stimulation, although the latency of the effect of melatonin was longer than those of Mg2+ and Zn2+. When these cations were simultaneously ejected with melatonin, additive inhibitory effects were recorded. These observations suggest that the inhibitory effects produced by Mg2+ and Zn2+ and melatonin are produced via different processes, and thus the inhibitory role of melatonin on the NMDA receptor activity is exclusive of a direct action on the NMDA calcium channel.

Aberrant neuronal responsiveness in the genetically epilepsy-prone rat: acoustic responses and influences of the central nucleus upon the external nucleus of inferior colliculus

The inferior colliculus (IC) central nucleus (ICc), is critical for audiogenic seizure (AGS) initiation in the genetically epilepsy-prone rat (GEPR). The ICc lacks direct motor outputs but sends a major projection to the external nucleus of IC (ICx), which does project to the sensorimotor integration nuclei within the AGS neuronal network. The present study compared acoustic responses of ICx neurons in the GEPR and normal anesthetized rat and evaluated whether the GEPR exhibits functional abnormalities in the pathway from ICc to ICx. There is a significantly greater incidence of sustained repetitive response patterns to the acoustic stimulus in GEPR ICx neurons (75%) than in normal ICx neurons (24%). Following unilateral microinjection of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) into the contralateral ICc, acoustically-evoked ICx excitation and inhibition were each increased in normal animals, which is consistent with the mixed projections previously reported in this pathway and observed with electrical stimulation in the present study. The NMDA-induced ICx firing increase may be relevant to AGS, since, in previous studies, bilateral focal microinjection of NMDA into the ICc induced AGS susceptibility in normal rats [23]. However, the incidence and degree of the ICx neuronal response changes after NMDA microinjection was not abnormal in the GEPR. These data suggest that the hyperresponsiveness of ICx neurons may not involve abnormal transmission between the ICc and ICx, despite the elevated ICx neuronal responses to acoustic stimuli. However, the ICx hyperresponsivess of the GEPR, which is likely due to the known decrease in effectiveness of GABA-mediated inhibition in GEPR neurons, may be a major mechanism subserving the critical role that this structure plays in the AGS network.

Epileptiform activity but not synaptic plasticity is blocked by oxidation of NMDA receptors in a chronic model of temporal lobe epilepsy

Simultaneous extracellular recordings were performed in stratum radiatum and stratum pyramidale of hippocampal slices 7 days following unilateral intracerebroventricular injections of kainic acid. In this ex vivo experimental model of human temporal lobe epilepsy, stimulation of the surviving commissural fibres in stratum radiatum produced graded epileptiform activity in the CA1 area. The oxidizing reagent 5,5'-dithiobis (2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) acting at NMDA receptors redox sites decreases NMDA receptor-mediated responses by half and suppresses evoked epileptiform discharges. We have examined the effect of DTNB on NMDA-dependent bidirectional synaptic plasticity and EPSP/spike coupling. DTNB treatment did not prevent either long-term potentiation induced by tetanic stimulation or long-term depression induced by low frequency stimulation of field EPSPs. Application of DTNB alone did not induce EPSP/spike dissociation. However, both high and low frequency stimulations induced EPSP/spike potentiation indicating that neurons had a high probability to discharge in synchrony. These results suggest that oxidizing reagents may provide novel antiepileptic treatments since they decrease NMDA-dependent evoked epileptiform activity but do not interfere with either NMDA-dependent synaptic plasticity or the probability of synchronous discharge.

A role for synaptic and network plasticity in controlling epileptiform activity in CA1 in the kainic acid-lesioned rat hippocampus in vitro

1. Stimulation of the surviving afferents in the stratum radiatum of the CA1 area in kainic acid-lesioned hippocampal slices produced graded epileptiform activity, part of which (> 20%) involved the activation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. There was also a failure of synaptic inhibition in this region. In this preparation, we have tested the effects of low-frequency stimulation (LFS; 1 Hz for 15 min) on synaptic responses and epileptiform activity. 2. LFS resulted in long-term depression (LTD) of excitatory synaptic potentials (EPSPs), long-term decrease of population spike amplitudes (PSAs) and EPSP-spike (E-S) potentiation. Evoked epileptiform activity was reduced but neurons had a higher probability of discharge. LTD could be reversed by subsequent tetanic stimulation whereas E-S dissociation remained unchanged. Synaptic and network responses could be saturated towards either potentiation or depression. However, E-S potentiation was maximal following the first conditioning stimulus. 3. NMDA receptor-mediated responses were pharmacologically isolated. LFS resulted in LTD of synaptic responses, long-term decrease of PSAs and E-S depression. These depressions could not be reversed by subsequent tetanic stimulation. alpha-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) and NMDA receptor-mediated responses were then measured in isolation before and following conditioning stimuli. LFS was shown to simultaneously produce LTD of AMPA and NMDA receptor-mediated responses. E-S potentiation of the AMPA component and E-S depression of the NMDA component occurred coincidentally. 4. LTD of AMPA and NMDA receptor-mediated responses were shown to be NMDA dependent. In contrast, E-S potentiation and depression occurred even when NMDA receptors were pharmacologically blocked. 5. These findings indicate that synaptic responses could be modified bidirectionally in the CA1 area of kainic acid-lesioned rat hippocampus in an NMDA receptor-dependent manner. However, E-S dissociations were independent of the activation of NMDA receptors, hinting at mechanisms different from those of synaptic LTD. We suggest that changes in E-S coupling were caused by a modification of the firing threshold of the CA1 pyramidal neurons. Furthermore, the firing mechanisms controlling NMDA and AMPA receptor-mediated network activity appeared to be different. The possible use of LFS applied to the hippocampus as a clinical intervention to suppress epileptiform activity is discussed.

Simultaneous expression of excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation and excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike depression in the hippocampus

Tetanic stimulation of afferents in the stratum radiatum of the CA1 area of the rat hippocampus results in long-term potentiation of excitatory synaptic responses in pyramidal cells. Previous studies have reported a greater increase in the population spike amplitude following the induction of long-term potentiation than could be accounted for by the increase of the slope of the population excitatory postsynaptic potential. Two hypotheses have been proposed to explain this phenomenon (called excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation): a modification of the firing threshold and/or a modification of the inhibitory drive. Previous studies have not, however, addressed the question of possible changes in spike threshold in association with long-term depression. This paper examines whether the concomitant long-term potentiation of pharmacologically isolated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated excitatory postsynaptic potentials, reported previously, is also associated with a change in spike threshold. When the amplitude of the population spike is plotted as a function of the slope of the population excitatory postsynaptic potential (excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike curve), excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation (depression) is seen as a shift of the excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike curve to the left (right) following a conditioning stimulus. In this study, using kainic acid lesioned hippocampus, we have shown that tetanic stimulation produced excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike potentiation of the control synaptic response and excitatory postsynaptic potential/spike depression of the isolated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated responses.