The GABA-withdrawal syndrome: a new model of focal epileptogenesis.

Abstract

A novel model of focal, cortical epilepsy is described. Chronic (6 h to 14 days), localized application of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) into the somatomotor cortex of rats induces, upon withdrawal, the appearance of epileptogenic activity with maximal electrographic expression circumscribed to the infused site. This GABA-withdrawal syndrome (tested for a 100 micrograms/microliter/h dose) lasted from 24 to 168 h (mean values). A significant correlation was found between infusion time and duration of the excitability rebound, with the longer duration corresponding to the shorter infusion time. A distant lesion effect was observed in the thalamic area of cortical projection. The potential use of this neurotransmitter-induced phenomenon in the study of brain plasticity in general, and of epilepsy in particular, is discussed.

• Authors: S Brailowsky, M Kunimoto, C Menini, C Silva-Barrat, D Riche, R Naquet
• Journal: Brain research (Brain Res) Vol. 442 Issue 1 Pg. 175-9 (Feb 23 1988) ISSN: 0006-8993 [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 3129132 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• gamma-Aminobutyric Acid

Topics

• Animals
• Cerebral Cortex (drug effects, pathology, physiopathology)
• Disease Models, Animal
• Epilepsies, Partial (chemically induced, physiopathology)
• Iontophoresis
• Male
• Rats
• Rats, Inbred Strains
• Time Factors
• gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (administration & dosage)