Astrocytes and Epilepsy

Changes in astrocyte channels, transporters, and metabolism play a critical role in seizure generation and epilepsy. In particular, alterations in astrocyte potassium, glutamate, water and adenosine homeostasis and gap junctional coupling have all been associated with hyperexcitability and epileptogenesis (largely in temporal lobe epilepsy). Distinct astrocytic changes have also been identified in other types of epilepsy, such as tuberous sclerosis, tumor-associated epilepsy and post-traumatic epilepsy. Together, the emerging literature on astrocytes and epilepsy provides powerful rationale for distinct new therapeutic targets that are astrocyte-specific.

Automated summary

Changes in astrocyte channels, transporters, and metabolism are closely linked to seizure generation and epilepsy, with alterations in potassium, glutamate, water and adenosine homeostasis contributing to hyperexcitability and epileptogenesis. Understanding the role of astrocytes in epilepsy offers potential for identifying novel astrocyte-specific therapeutic targets.