In Vivo Experimental Models of Epilepsy

Carmen      Rubio; Moises      Rubio-Osornio; Socorro      Retana-Marquez; Marisol      Lopez; Veronica      Custodio; Carlos      Paz

Abstract

This study reviews the different in vivo experimental models that have been used for the study of epileptogenesis. In this review we will focus on how to replicate the different models that have led to the study of partial seizures, as well as generalized seizures and the status epilepticus. The main characteristics that participate in the processes that generate and modulate the manifestations of different models of epileptogenesis are described. The development of several models of experimental epilepsy in animals has clearly helped the study of specific brain areas capable of causing convulsions. The experimental models of epilepsy also have helped in the study the mechanisms and actions of epilepsy drugs. In order to develop experimental animal models of epilepsy, animals are generally chosen according to the kind of epilepsy that can be developed and studied. It is currently known that animal species can have epileptic seizures similar to those in humans. However, it is important to keep in mind that it has not been possible to entirely evaluate all manifestations of human epilepsy. Notwithstanding, these experimental models of epilepsy have allowed a partial understanding of most of the underlying mechanisms of this disease.

Keywords: Epilepsy models, aluminum hydroxide, kainic acid, kindling, electroshock seizure, penicillin, bicuculline, GABA, tetanic toxin, pilocarpine, epileptogenesis, epilepticus, glutamenergic neurotransmission, epileptic seizures, Papio papio baboon model, epileptogenic, cerebral cortex (Cx), sensorimotor cortex, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), electroencephalogram (EEG), GABAergic neurons, zinc sulphate, amygdala (Am), electroencephalographic, Glutamate, hippocampal CA1, antiepileptic drugs, neocortex, Pentylentetrazol, axonal growth, Carbamazepine, mesencephalus, glutaminergic synapses, intraperitoneal, intracortical, Bicuculine, neurotransmitter, inferior colliculi, stroboscopic stimulation, cerebral hemispheres, barbiturates, Pilocarpine hydrochloride, amygdaloid, thalamus, pilocarpine-treated animals, electroshock model, alumina cream model, electroencephalographic activity