Patterns of gene expression in epileptogenesis: Micro-Array studies in rats

Microarray experiments with RNA from brain regions obtained at different time points after electrically or pharmacologically induced status epilepticus in the rat point to inflammation as a possible contributing epileptogenic factor. The overwhelming acute inflammatory response is reflected in a general and time-dependent activation of multiple genes that code proteases, cytokines, and other inflammatory substances. Expression of these genes can alter the dynamics of neuron-glia networks - for example, by potentiating glutamate release from neuronal and glial sources. Some overactivated genes may not only cause parenchymal inflammation but also inflammation of endothelial cells, leading to disruption of the blood brain barrier - a feature that may further contribute to network instability. From this scenario it can be speculated that antiinflammatory treatment could help to slow down the process of epileptogenesis or prevent further progression of the disease.