Bidirectional multisite seizure propagation in the intact isolated hippocampus: the multifocality of the seizure "focus"

Schisandrin B, a dual positive allosteric modulator of GABAA and glycine receptors, alleviates seizures in multiple mouse models

Epilepsy is a prevalent and severe neurological disorder and approximately 30% of patients are resistant to existing medications. It is of utmost importance to develop alternative therapies to treat epilepsy. Schisandrin B (SchB) is a major bioactive constituent of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill and has multiple neuroprotective effects, sedative and hypnotic activities. In this study, we investigated the antiseizure effect of SchB in various mouse models of seizure and explored the underlying mechanisms. Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), strychnine (STR), and pilocarpine-induced mouse seizure models were established. We showed that injection of SchB (10, 30, 60 mg/kg, i.p.) dose-dependently delayed the onset of generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS), reduced the incidence of GTCS and mortality in PTZ and STR models. Meanwhile, injection of SchB (30 mg/kg, i.p.) exhibited therapeutic potential in pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus model, which was considered as a drug-resistant model. In whole-cell recording from CHO/HEK-239 cells stably expressing recombinant human GABAA receptors (GABAARs) and glycine receptors (GlyRs) and cultured hippocampal neurons, co-application of SchB dose-dependently enhanced GABA or glycine-induced current with EC50 values at around 5 μM, and application of SchB (10 μM) alone did not activate the channels in the absence of GABA or glycine. Furthermore, SchB (10 μM) eliminated both PTZ-induced inhibition on GABA-induced current (IGABA) and strychnine (STR)-induced inhibition on glycine-induced current (Iglycine). Moreover, SchB (10 μM) efficiently rescued the impaired GABAARs associated with genetic epilepsies. In addition, the homologous mutants in both GlyRs-α1(S267Q) and GABAARs-α1(S297Q)β2(N289S)γ2L receptors by site-directed mutagenesis tests abolished SchB-induced potentiation of IGABA and Iglycine. In conclusion, we have identified SchB as a natural positive allosteric modulator of GABAARs and GlyRs, supporting its potential as alternative therapies for epilepsy.

Temporally Targeted Interactions With Pathologic Oscillations as Therapeutical Targets in Epilepsy and Beyond

Self-organized neuronal oscillations rely on precisely orchestrated ensemble activity in reverberating neuronal networks. Chronic, non-malignant disorders of the brain are often coupled to pathological neuronal activity patterns. In addition to the characteristic behavioral symptoms, these disturbances are giving rise to both transient and persistent changes of various brain rhythms. Increasing evidence support the causal role of these "oscillopathies" in the phenotypic emergence of the disease symptoms, identifying neuronal network oscillations as potential therapeutic targets. While the kinetics of pharmacological therapy is not suitable to compensate the disease related fine-scale disturbances of network oscillations, external biophysical modalities (e.g., electrical stimulation) can alter spike timing in a temporally precise manner. These perturbations can warp rhythmic oscillatory patterns via resonance or entrainment. Properly timed phasic stimuli can even switch between the stable states of networks acting as multistable oscillators, substantially changing the emergent oscillatory patterns. Novel transcranial electric stimulation (TES) approaches offer more reliable neuronal control by allowing higher intensities with tolerable side-effect profiles. This precise temporal steerability combined with the non- or minimally invasive nature of these novel TES interventions make them promising therapeutic candidates for functional disorders of the brain. Here we review the key experimental findings and theoretical background concerning various pathological aspects of neuronal network activity leading to the generation of epileptic seizures. The conceptual and practical state of the art of temporally targeted brain stimulation is discussed focusing on the prevention and early termination of epileptic seizures.

Epileptiform activity in mouse hippocampal slices induced by moderate changes in extracellular Mg2+, Ca2+, and K. BMC Neurosci 2021;22:46. [PMID: 34301200 PMCID: PMC8305515 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-021-00650-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

BACKGROUND

Rodent brain slices-particularly hippocampal slices-are widely used in experimental investigations of epileptiform activity. Oxygenated artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) is used to maintain slices in vitro. Physiological or standard ACSF containing 3-3.5 mM K⁺, 1-2 mM Mg²⁺, and 1-3 mM Ca²⁺ generally does not induce population epileptiform activity, which can be induced by ACSF with high K⁺ (8-10 mM), low Mg²⁺, or low Ca²⁺ alone or in combination. While low-Mg²⁺ ACSF without intentionally added Mg salt but with contaminating Mg²⁺ (≤ 50-80 µM) from other salts can induce robust epileptiform activity in slices, it is unclear whether such epileptiform activity can be achieved using ACSF with moderately decreased Mg²⁺. To explore this issue, we examined the effects of moderately modified (m)ACSF with 0.8 mM Mg²⁺, 1.3 mM Ca²⁺, and 5.7 mM K⁺ on induction of epileptiform discharges in mouse hippocampal slices.

RESULTS

Hippocampal slices were prepared from young (21-28 days old), middle-aged (13-14 months old), and aged (24-26 months old) C57/BL6 mice. Conventional thin (0.4 mm) and thick (0.6 mm) slices were obtained using a vibratome and pretreated with mACSF at 35-36 °C for 1 h prior to recordings. During perfusion with mACSF at 35-36 °C, spontaneous or self-sustained epileptiform field potentials following high-frequency stimulation were frequently recorded in slices pretreated with mACSF but not in those without the pretreatment. Seizure-like ictal discharges were more common in thick slices than in thin slices.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged exposure to mACSF by pretreatment and subsequent perfusion can induce epileptiform field potentials in mouse hippocampal slices.

Focal Suppression of Epileptiform Activity in the Hippocampus by a High-frequency Magnetic Field

Electric current has been used for epilepsy treatment by targeting specific neural circuitries. Despite its success, direct contact between the electrode and tissue could cause side effects including pain, inflammation, and adverse biological reactions. Magnetic stimulation overcomes these limitations by offering advantages over biocompatibility and operational feasibility. However, the underlying neurological mechanisms of its action are largely unknown. In this work, a magnetic generating system was assembled that included a miniature coil. The coil was positioned above the CA3 area of mouse hippocampal slices. Epileptiform activity (EFA) was induced with low Mg²⁺/high K⁺ perfusion or with 100 µM 4-aminopyridine (4-AP). The miniature coil generated a sizable electric field that suppressed the local EFA in the hippocampus in the low-Mg²⁺/high-K⁺ model. The inhibition effect was dependent on the frequency and duration of the magnetic stimulus, with high frequency being more effective in suppressing EFA. EFA suppression by the magnetic field was also observed in the 4-AP model, in a frequency and duration - dependent manner. The study provides a platform for further investigation of cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying epilepsy treatment with time varying magnetic fields.

Mode-Dependent Effect of Xenon Inhalation on Kainic Acid-Induced Status Epilepticus in Rats

Previous studies have reported the possible neuroprotective effects of xenon treatment. The purpose of this study was to define the range of effective xenon ratio, most effective xenon ratio, and time-window for intervention in the kainic acid (KA) – induced status epilepticus (SE) rat model. Different ratios of xenon (35% xenon, 21% oxygen, 44% nitrogen, 50% xenon, 21% oxygen, 29% nitrogen, 70% xenon, 21% oxygen, and 9% nitrogen) were used to treat the KA-induced SE. Our results confirmed the anti-seizure role of 50 and 70% xenon mixture, with a stronger effect from the latter. Further, 70% xenon mixture was dispensed at three time points (0 min, 15 min delayed, and 30 min delayed) after KA administration, and the results indicated the anti-seizure effect at all treated time points. The results also established that the neuronal injury in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex (EC), assessed using Fluoro-Jade B (FJB) staining, were reversed by the xenon inhalation, and within 30 min after KA administration. Our study, therefore, indicates the appropriate effective xenon ratio and time-window for intervention that can depress seizures. The prevention of neuronal injury and further reversal of the loss of effective control of depress network in the hippocampus and EC may be the mechanisms underlying the anti-seizure effect of xenon.

Corpus callosum low-frequency stimulation suppresses seizures in an acute rat model of focal cortical seizures

OBJECTIVE

Low-frequency fiber-tract stimulation has been shown to be effective in treating mesial temporal lobe epilepsies through activation of the hippocampal commissure in rodents and human patients. The corpus callosum is a major pathway connecting the two hemispheres of the brain; however, few experiments have documented corpus callosum stimulation. The objective is to determine the efficacy of corpus callosum stimulation at low frequencies to suppress cortical seizures.

METHODS

4-Aminopyridine was injected in the primary motor cortex of 24 rats under anesthesia. Recording electrodes were placed in the contralateral motor cortex and hippocampus. Three pairs of stimulating electrodes were inserted into the corpus callosum along its longitudinal axis. Local field potentials were recorded 1 hour before, during, and after stimulation to determine the effect of stimulation on seizure duration. Stimulation was delivered from each pair of electrodes independently in separate experiments. Furthermore, electrical stimulation was applied to the region of the corpus callosum with the highest degree of innervation of the seizure focus to compare the efficacy of different stimulation frequencies (1-30 Hz) on seizure suppression.

RESULTS

Corpus callosum stimulation was effective at suppressing seizures at 10 Hz by 76% (P < 0.05, n = 5) and at 20 Hz by 95% (P < 0.0001, n = 14). Stimulation at frequencies of 1 and 30 Hz did not have a significant effect on reducing the total time spent seizing (P > 0.9999, n = 5). Furthermore, stimulation was only effective at suppressing seizures when the pair of electrodes was placed within the section of corpus callosum containing fibers innervating the seizure focus. Secondarily generalized seizures in the hippocampus were eliminated when seizures in the cortical focus were suppressed.

SIGNIFICANCE

Low-frequency fiber-tract stimulation of the corpus callosum suppresses both cortical and cortically induced hippocampal seizures in an acute model of focal cortical seizures. The stimulation paradigm is selective, as it is only effective when targeted to specific regions of the corpus callosum that project maximally to cortical regions generating the seizure activity. Selective placement of stimulation electrodes along the corpus callosum could be used as a patient-specific treatment for cortical epilepsies.

Slow moving neural source in the epileptic hippocampus can mimic progression of human seizures

Fast and slow neural waves have been observed to propagate in the human brain during seizures. Yet the nature of these waves is difficult to study in a surgical setting. Here, we report an observation of two different traveling waves propagating in the in-vitro epileptic hippocampus at speeds similar to those in the human brain. A fast traveling spike and a slow moving wave were recorded simultaneously with a genetically encoded voltage sensitive fluorescent protein (VSFP Butterfly 1.2) and a high speed camera. The results of this study indicate that the fast traveling spike is NMDA-sensitive but the slow moving wave is not. Image analysis and model simulation demonstrate that the slow moving wave is moving slowly, generating the fast traveling spike and is, therefore, a moving source of the epileptiform activity. This slow moving wave is associated with a propagating neural calcium wave detected with calcium dye (OGB-1) but is independent of NMDA receptors, not related to ATP release, and much faster than those previously recorded potassium waves. Computer modeling suggests that the slow moving wave can propagate by the ephaptic effect like epileptiform activity. These findings provide an alternative explanation for slow propagation seizure wavefronts associated with fast propagating spikes.

Altered glutamate metabolism contributes to antiepileptogenic effects in the progression from focal seizure to generalized seizure by low-frequency stimulation in the ventral hippocampus

As a promising method for treating intractable epilepsy, the inhibitory effect of low-frequency stimulation (LFS) is well known, although its mechanisms remain unclear. Excessive levels of cerebral glutamate are considered a crucial factor for epilepsy. Therefore, we designed experiments to investigate the crucial parts of the glutamate cycle. We evaluated glutamine synthetase (GS, metabolizes glutamate), glutaminase (synthesizes glutamate), and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD, a γ-aminobutyric acid [GABA] synthetase) in different regions of the brain, including the dentate gyrus (DG), CA3, and CA1 subregions of the hippocampus, and the cortex, using western blots, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme activity assays. Additionally, the concentrations of glutamate, GABA, and glutamine (a product of GS) were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in the same subregions. The results indicated that a transiently promoted glutamate cycle was closely involved in the progression from focal to generalized seizure. Low-frequency stimulation (LFS) delivered to the ventral hippocampus had an antiepileptogenic effect in rats exposed to amygdaloid-kindling stimulation. Simultaneously, LFS could partly reverse the effects of the promoted glutamate cycle, including increased GS function, accelerated glutamate-glutamine cycling, and an unbalanced glutamate/GABA ratio, all of which were induced by amygdaloid kindling in the DG when seizures progressed to stage 4. Moreover, glutamine treatment reversed the antiepileptic effect of LFS with regard to both epileptic severity and susceptibility. Our results suggest that the effects of LFS on the glutamate cycle may contribute to the antiepileptogenic role of LFS in the progression from focal to generalized seizure.

Propagating Neural Source Revealed by Doppler Shift of Population Spiking Frequency

Electrical activity in the brain during normal and abnormal function is associated with propagating waves of various speeds and directions. It is unclear how both fast and slow traveling waves with sometime opposite directions can coexist in the same neural tissue. By recording population spikes simultaneously throughout the unfolded rodent hippocampus with a penetrating microelectrode array, we have shown that fast and slow waves are causally related, so a slowly moving neural source generates fast-propagating waves at ∼0.12 m/s. The source of the fast population spikes is limited in space and moving at ∼0.016 m/s based on both direct and Doppler measurements among 36 different spiking trains among eight different hippocampi. The fact that the source is itself moving can account for the surprising direction reversal of the wave. Therefore, these results indicate that a small neural focus can move and that this phenomenon could explain the apparent wave reflection at tissue edges or multiple foci observed at different locations in neural tissue.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

The use of novel techniques with an unfolded hippocampus and penetrating microelectrode array to record and analyze neural activity has revealed the existence of a source of neural signals that propagates throughout the hippocampus. The source itself is electrically silent, but its location can be inferred by building isochrone maps of population spikes that the source generates. The movement of the source can also be tracked by observing the Doppler frequency shift of these spikes. These results have general implications for how neural signals are generated and propagated in the hippocampus; moreover, they have important implications for the understanding of seizure generation and foci localization.

In vivo models of cortical acquired epilepsy

The neocortex is the site of origin of several forms of acquired epilepsy. Here we provide a brief review of experimental models that were recently developed to study neocortical epileptogenesis as well as some major results obtained with these methods. Most of neocortical seizures appear to be nocturnal and it is known that neuronal activities reveal high levels of synchrony during slow-wave sleep. Therefore, we start the review with a description of mechanisms of neuronal synchronization and major forms of synchronized normal and pathological activities. Then, we describe three experimental models of seizures and epileptogenesis: ketamine-xylazine anesthesia as feline seizure triggered factor, cortical undercut as cortical penetrating wound model and neocortical kindling. Besides specific technical details describing these models we also provide major features of pathological brain activities recorded during epileptogenesis and seizures. The most common feature of all models of neocortical epileptogenesis is the increased duration of network silent states that up-regulates neuronal excitability and eventually leads to epilepsy.

Models of drug-induced epileptiform synchronization in vitro

Models of epileptiform activity in vitro have many advantages for recording and experimental manipulation. Neural tissues can be maintained in vitro for hours, and in neuronal or organotypic slice cultures for several weeks. A variety of drugs and other agents increase activity in these in vitro conditions, in many cases resulting in epileptiform activity, thus providing a direct model of symptomatic seizures. We review these preparations and the experimental manipulations used to induce epileptiform activity. The most common of drugs used are GABAA receptor antagonists and potassium channel blockers (notably 4-aminopyridine). Muscarinic agents also can induce epileptiform synchronization in vitro, and include potassium channel inhibition amongst their cellular actions. Manipulations of extracellular ions are reviewed in another paper in this special issue, as are ex vivo slices prepared from chronically epileptic animals and from people with epilepsy. More complex slices including extensive networks and/or several connected brain structures can provide insights into the dynamics of long range connections during epileptic activity. Visualization of slices also provides opportunities for identification of living neurons and for optical recording/stimulation and manipulation. Overall, the analysis of the epileptiform activity induced in brain tissue in vitro has played a major role in advancing our understanding of the cellular and network mechanisms of epileptiform synchronization, and it is expected to continue to do so in future.

Initiation, Propagation, and Termination of Partial (Focal) Seizures

The neurophysiological patterns that correlate with partial (focal) seizures are well defined in humans by standard electroencephalogram (EEG) and presurgical depth electrode recordings. Seizure patterns with similar features are reproduced in animal models of partial seizures and epilepsy. However, the network determinants that support interictal spikes, as well as the initiation, progression, and termination of seizures, are still elusive. Recent findings show that inhibitory networks are prominently involved at the onset of these seizures, and that extracellular changes in potassium contribute to initiate and sustain seizure progression. The end of a partial seizure correlates with an increase in network synchronization, which possibly involves both excitatory and inhibitory mechanisms.

Hypoglycemia-induced alterations in hippocampal intrinsic rhythms: Decreased inhibition, increased excitation, seizures and spreading depression

Seizures are the most common clinical presentation of severe hypoglycemia, usually as a side effect of insulin treatment for juvenile onset type 1 diabetes mellitus and advanced type 2 diabetes. We used the mouse thick hippocampal slice preparation to study the pathophysiology of hypoglycemia-induced seizures and the effects of severe glucose depletion on the isolated hippocampal rhythms from the CA3 circuitry.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Dropping the glucose perfusate concentration from the standard 10 mM to 1 mM produced epileptiform activity in 14/16 of the slices. Seizure-like events (SLEs) originated in the CA3 region and then spread into the CA1 region. Following the SLE, a spreading-depression (SD)-like event occurred (12/16 slices) with irreversible synaptic failure in the CA1 region (8/12 slices). CA3 SD-like events followed ~30 s after the SD-like event in the CA1 region. Less commonly, SD-like events originated in the CA3 region (4/12). Additionally, prior to the onset of the SLE in the CA3 area, there was decreased GABA correlated baseline SPW activity (bSPW), while there was increased large-amplitude sharp wave (LASW) activity, thought to originate from synchronous pyramidal cell firing. CA3 pyramidal cells displayed progressive tonic depolarization prior to the seizure which was resistant to synaptic transmission blockade. The initiation of hypoglycemic seizures and SD was prevented by AMPA/kainate or NMDA receptor blockade.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe glucose depletion induces rapid changes initiated in the intrinsic CA3 rhythms of the hippocampus including depressed inhibition and enhanced excitation, which may underlie the mechanisms of seizure generation and delayed spreading depression.

Metabolic responses differentiate between interictal, ictal and persistent epileptiform activity in intact, immature hippocampus in vitro

Interictal spikes, ictal responses, and status epilepticus are characteristic of abnormal neuronal activity in epilepsy. Since these events may involve different energy requirements, we evaluated metabolic function (assessed by simultaneous NADH and FAD+ imaging and tissue O2 recordings) in the immature, intact mouse hippocampus (P5-P7, in vitro) during spontaneous interictal spikes and ictal-like events (ILEs), induced by increased neuronal network excitability with either low Mg2+ media or decreased inhibition with bicuculline. In low Mg2+ medium NADH fluorescence showed a small decrease both during the interictal build-up leading to an ictal event and before ILE occurrences, but a large positive response during and after ILEs (up to 10% net change). Tissue O2 recordings (pO2) showed an oxygen dip (indicating oxygen consumption) coincident with each ILE at P5 and P7, closely matching an NADH fluorescence increase, indicating a large surge in oxidative metabolism. The ILE O2 dip was significantly larger at P7 as compared to P5 suggesting a higher metabolic response at P7. After several ILEs at P7, continuous, low voltage activity (late recurrent discharges: LRDs) occurred. During LRDs, whilst the epileptiform activity was relatively small (low voltage synchronous activity) oxygen levels remained low and NADH fluorescence elevated, indicating persistent oxygen utilization and maintained high metabolic demand. In bicuculline, NADH fluorescence levels decreased prior to the onset of epileptiform activity, followed by a slow positive phase, which persisted during interictal responses. Metabolic responses can thus differentiate between interictal, ictal-like and persistent epileptiform activity resembling status epilepticus, and confirm that spreading depression did not occur. These results demonstrate clear translational value to the understanding of metabolic requirements during epileptic conditions.

Ictal propagation of high frequency activity is recapitulated in interictal recordings: effective connectivity of epileptogenic networks recorded with intracranial EEG

Seizures are increasingly understood to arise from epileptogenic networks across which ictal activity is propagated and sustained. In patients undergoing invasive monitoring for epilepsy surgery, high frequency oscillations have been observed within the seizure onset zone during both ictal and interictal intervals. We hypothesized that the patterns by which high frequency activity is propagated would help elucidate epileptogenic networks and thereby identify network nodes relevant for surgical planning. Intracranial EEG recordings were analyzed with a multivariate autoregressive modeling technique (short-time direct directed transfer function--SdDTF), based on the concept of Granger causality, to estimate the directionality and intensity of propagation of high frequency activity (70-175 Hz) during ictal and interictal recordings. These analyses revealed prominent divergence and convergence of high frequency activity propagation at sites identified by epileptologists as part of the ictal onset zone. In contrast, relatively little propagation of this activity was observed among the other analyzed sites. This pattern was observed in both subdural and depth electrode recordings of patients with focal ictal onset, but not in patients with a widely distributed ictal onset. In patients with focal ictal onsets, the patterns of propagation recorded during pre-ictal (up to 5 min immediately preceding ictal onset) and interictal (more than 24h before and after seizures) intervals were very similar to those recorded during seizures. The ability to characterize epileptogenic networks from interictal recordings could have important clinical implications for epilepsy surgery planning by reducing the need for prolonged invasive monitoring to record spontaneous seizures.

Gain control of γ frequency activation by a novel feed forward disinhibitory loop: implications for normal and epileptic neural activity

The inhibition of excitatory (pyramidal) neurons directly dampens their activity resulting in a suppression of neural network output. The inhibition of inhibitory cells is more complex. Inhibitory drive is known to gate neural network synchrony, but there is also a widely held view that it may augment excitability by reducing inhibitory cell activity, a process termed disinhibition. Surprisingly, however, disinhibition has never been demonstrated to be an important mechanism that augments or drives the activity of excitatory neurons in a functioning neural circuit. Using voltage sensitive dye imaging (VSDI) we show that 20–80 Hz stimulus trains, β–γ activation, of the olfactory cortex pyramidal cells in layer II leads to a subsequent reduction in inhibitory interneuron activity that augments the efficacy of the initial stimulus. This disinhibition occurs with a lag of about 150–250 ms after the initial excitation of the layer 2 pyramidal cell layer. In addition, activation of the endopiriform nucleus also arises just before the disinhibitory phase with a lag of about 40–80 ms. Preventing the spread of action potentials from layer II stopped the excitation of the endopiriform nucleus, abolished the disinhibitory activity, and reduced the excitation of layer II cells. After the induction of experimental epilepsy the disinhibition was more intense with a concomitant increase in excitatory cell activity. Our observations provide the first evidence of feed forward disinhibition loop that augments excitatory neurotransmission, a mechanism that could play an important role in the development of epileptic seizures.

A network analysis of the dynamics of seizure

Seizures are events that spread through the brain's network of connections and create pathological activity. To understand what is occurring in the brain during seizure we investigated the time progression of the brain's state from seizure onset to seizure suppression. Knowledge of a seizure's dynamics and the associated spatial structure is important for localizing the seizure foci and determining the optimal location and timing of electrical stimulation to mitigate seizure development. In this study, we analyzed intracranial EEG data recorded in 2 human patients with drug-resistant epilepsy prior to undergoing resection surgery using network analyses. Specifically, we computed a time sequence of connectivity matrices from iEEG (intracranial electroencephalography) recordings that represent network structure over time. For each patient, connectivity between electrodes was measured using the coherence in the band of frequencies with the strongest modulation during seizure. The connectivity matrices' structure was analyzed using an eigen-decomposition. The leading eigenvector was used to estimate each electrode's time dependent centrality (importance to the network's connectivity). The electrode centralities were clustered over the course of each seizure and the cluster centroids were compared across seizures. We found, for each patient, there was a consistent set of centroids that occurred during each seizure. Further, the brain reliably evolved through the same progression of states across multiple seizures including characteristic onset and suppression states.

Optogenetically induced seizure and the longitudinal hippocampal network dynamics

Epileptic seizure is a paroxysmal and self-limited phenomenon characterized by abnormal hypersynchrony of a large population of neurons. However, our current understanding of seizure dynamics is still limited. Here we propose a novel in vivo model of seizure-like afterdischarges using optogenetics, and report on investigation of directional network dynamics during seizure along the septo-temporal (ST) axis of hippocampus. Repetitive pulse photostimulation was applied to the rodent hippocampus, in which channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) was expressed, under simultaneous recording of local field potentials (LFPs). Seizure-like afterdischarges were successfully induced after the stimulation in both W-TChR2V4 transgenic (ChR2V-TG) rats and in wild type rats transfected with adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors carrying ChR2. Pulse frequency at 10 and 20 Hz, and a 0.05 duty ratio were optimal for afterdischarge induction. Immunohistochemical c-Fos staining after a single induced afterdischarge confirmed neuronal activation of the entire hippocampus. LFPs were recorded during seizure-like afterdischarges with a multi-contact array electrode inserted along the ST axis of hippocampus. Granger causality analysis of the LFPs showed a bidirectional but asymmetric increase in signal flow along the ST direction. State space presentation of the causality and coherence revealed three discrete states of the seizure-like afterdischarge phenomenon: 1) resting state; 2) afterdischarge initiation with moderate coherence and dominant septal-to-temporal causality; and 3) afterdischarge termination with increased coherence and dominant temporal-to-septal causality. A novel in vivo model of seizure-like afterdischarge was developed using optogenetics, which was advantageous in its reproducibility and artifact-free electrophysiological observations. Our results provide additional evidence for the potential role of hippocampal septo-temporal interactions in seizure dynamics in vivo. Bidirectional networks work hierarchically along the ST hippocampus in the genesis and termination of epileptic seizures.

Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most common form of adult localization-related epilepsy. Hippocampal onset accounts for at least 80% of all temporal lobe seizures. The electroencephalogram (EEG) of mesial TLE contains interictal features often associated with anterior temporal epileptiform discharges with a maximal voltage over the basal temporal electrodes. Localized ictal patterns on scalp EEGs characteristically reveal unilateral 5- to 9-Hz rhythmic ictal theta or alpha epileptiform activity maximal in the anterior temporal scalp electrodes. Invasive-scalp EEG comparisons have yielded direct information about mesial temporal sources and their corresponding electrical fields. Refinement of macroscopic spatial and the temporal resolution suggest that a more precise seizure localization may exist beyond 1- to 35-Hz frequencies observed in routine scalp recording. Defining the focal areas of ictogenesis within the medial temporal lobe demonstrates a rich connection to a broad network that goes beyond the medial structures and even the temporal lobe itself. Advanced electrophysiologic application in TLE may further our understanding of ictogenesis to perfect surgical treatment and to elucidate the neurophysiologic corollaries of epileptogensis itself.

Spatiotemporal dynamics of high-K+-induced epileptiform discharges in hippocampal slice and the effects of valproate

The epileptic seizure is a dynamic process involving a rapid transition from normal activity to a state of hypersynchronous neuronal discharges. Here we investigated the network properties of epileptiform discharges in hippocampal slices in the presence of high K(+) concentration (8.5 mmol/L) in the bath, and the effects of the anti-epileptic drug valproate (VPA) on epileptiform discharges, using a microelectrode array. We demonstrated that epileptiform discharges were predominantly initiated from the stratum pyramidale layer of CA3a-b and propagated bi-directionally to CA1 and CA3c. Disconnection of CA3 from CA1 abolished the discharges in CA1 without disrupting the initiation of discharges in CA3. Further pharmacological experiments showed that VPA at a clinically relevant concentration (100 μmol/L) suppressed the propagation speed but not the rate or duration of high-K(+)-induced discharges. Our findings suggest that pacemakers exist in the CA3a-b region for the generation of epileptiform discharges in the hippocampus. VPA reduces the conduction of such discharges in the network by reducing the propagation speed.

Evidence for connexin36 localization at hippocampal mossy fiber terminals suggesting mixed chemical/electrical transmission by granule cells

Electrical synaptic transmission via gap junctions has become an accepted feature of neuronal communication in the mammalian brain, and occurs often between dendrites of interneurons in major brain structures, including the hippocampus. Electrical and dye-coupling has also been reported to occur between pyramidal cells in the hippocampus, but ultrastructurally-identified gap junctions between these cells have so far eluded detection. Gap junctions can be formed by nerve terminals, where they contribute the electrical component of mixed chemical/electrical synaptic transmission, but mixed synapses have only rarely been described in mammalian CNS. Here, we used immunofluorescence localization of the major gap junction forming protein connexin36 to examine its possible association with hippocampal pyramidal cells. In addition to labeling associated with gap junctions between dendrites of parvalbumin-positive interneurons, a high density of fine, punctate immunolabeling for Cx36, non-overlapping with parvalbumin, was found in subregions of the stratum lucidum in the ventral hippocampus of rat brain. A high percentage of Cx36-positive puncta in the stratum lucidum was localized to mossy fiber terminals, as indicated by co-localization of Cx36-puncta with the mossy terminal marker vesicular glutamate transporter-1, as well as with other proteins that are highly concentrated in, and diagnostic markers of, these terminals. These results suggest that mossy fiber terminals abundantly form mixed chemical/electrical synapses with pyramidal cells, where they may serve as intermediaries for the reported electrical and dye-coupling between ensembles of these principal cells. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Electrical Synapses.

Reactive astrocytes contribute to increased epileptic susceptibility induced by subthreshold dose of pilocarpine

Seizures may influence epileptogenesis, but it is not yet clearly established whether subthreshold stimulations that are not sufficient to induce visible behavioral seizures change epileptic susceptibility, and the possible underlying mechanisms have not been completely understood. We assessed the susceptibility to epilepsy after subthreshold dose of pilocarpine, as well as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression using immunohistochemistry. An increase in the susceptibility to pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures was observed in rats previously subjected to subthreshold dose of pilocarpine. The immunoreactivity of GFAP was also increased, indicating that astrocytes became reactive in some brain subfields. The increased epileptic susceptibility was significantly reduced by L-alpha-aminoadipic acid (L-AAA), an inhibitor of astrocytic function. Our results suggest that subthreshold stimulation may increase the susceptibility to subsequent development of epilepsy, and reactive astrocytes might be an important contributor to this process. Adequate inhibition of astrocytic function may be a potential preventive approach against epileptogenesis.

Fiber tract stimulation can reduce epileptiform activity in an in-vitro bilateral hippocampal slice preparation

Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) is a common medically refractory neurological disease that has been treated with electrical stimulation of gray matter with limited success. However, stimulation of a white matter tract connecting the hippocampi could maximize treatment efficacy and extent. We tested low-frequency stimulation (LFS) of a novel target that enables simultaneous targeting of bilateral hippocampi: the ventral hippocampal commissure (VHC) with a novel in-vitro slice preparation containing bilateral hippocampi connected by the VHC. The goal of this study is to understand the role of hippocampal interplay in seizure propagation and reduction by commissural fiber tract stimulation. LFS is applied to the VHC as extracellular and intracellular recording techniques are combined with signal processing to estimate several metrics of epilepsy including: (1) total time occupied by seizure activity (%); (2) seizure duration (s); (3) seizures per minute (#); and (4) power in the ictal (V(2)Hz(-1)); as well as (5) interictal spectra (V(2)Hz(-1)). Bilateral epileptiform activity in this preparation is highly correlated between hippocampi. Application of LFS to the VHC reduces all metrics of epilepsy during treatment in an amplitude and frequency dependent manner. This study lends several insights into the mechanisms of bilateral seizure reduction by LFS of the VHC, including that depolarization blocking, LTD/LTP and GABA(A) are not involved. Importantly, enhanced post-stimulation 1-Hz spiking correlates with long-lasting seizure reduction and both are heightened by targeting bilateral hippocampi via the VHC. Therefore, stimulating bilateral hippocampi via a single electrode in the VHC may provide an effective MTLE treatment.

Markers of pathological excitability derived from principal dynamic modes of hippocampal neurons

Transformation of principal dynamic modes (PDMs) under epileptogenic conditions was investigated by computing the Volterra kernels in a rodent epilepsy model derived from a mouse whole hippocampal preparation, where epileptogenesis was induced by altering the concentrations of Mg(2 +) and K(+) of the perfusate for different levels of excitability. Both integrating and differentiating PDMs were present in the neuronal dynamics, and both of them increased in absolute magnitude for increased excitability levels. However, the integrating PDMs dominated at all levels of excitability in terms of their relative contributions to the overall response, whereas the dominant frequency responses of the differentiating PDMs were shifted to higher ranges under epileptogenic conditions, from ripple activities (75-200 Hz) to fast ripple activities (200-500 Hz).

High temperatures alter physiological properties of pyramidal cells and inhibitory interneurons in hippocampus

Temperature has multiple effects on neurons, yet little is known about the effects of high temperature on the physiology of mammalian central neurons. Hyperthermia can influence behavior and cause febrile seizures. We studied the effects of acute hyperthermia on the immature hippocampus in vitro by recording from pyramidal neurons and inhibitory oriens-lacunosum moleculare (O-LM) interneurons (identified by green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression in the GIN mouse line). Warming to 41°C caused depolarization, spontaneous action potentials, reduced input resistance and membrane time constant, and increased spontaneous synaptic activity of most pyramidal cells and O-LM interneurons. Pyramidal neurons of area CA3 were more strongly excited by hyperthermia than those of area CA1. About 90% of O-LM interneurons in both CA1 and CA3 increased their firing rates at hyperthermic temperatures; interneurons in CA3 fired faster than those in CA1 on average. Blockade of fast synaptic transmission did not abolish the effect of hyperthermia on neuronal excitability. Our results suggest that hyperthermia increases hippocampal excitability, particularly in seizure-prone area CA3, by altering the intrinsic membrane properties of pyramidal cells and interneurons.

Kernel duration and modulation gain in a coupled oscillator model and their implications on the progression of seizures

The coupled oscillator model has previously been used for the simulation of neuronal activities in in vitro rat hippocampal slice seizure data and the evaluation of seizure suppression algorithms. Each model unit can be described as either an oscillator which can generate action potential spike trains without inputs, or a threshold-based unit. With the change of only one parameter, each unit can either be an oscillator or a threshold-based spiking unit. This would eliminate the need of a new set of equations for each type of unit. Previous analysis has suggested that long kernel duration and imbalance of inhibitory feedback can cause the system to intermittently transition into and out of ictal activities. The state transitions of seizure-like events were investigated here; specifically, how the system excitability may change when the system underwent transitions in the preictal and postictal processes. Analysis showed that the area of the excitation kernel is positively correlated with the mean firing rate of ictal activity. The kernel duration is also correlated to the amount of ictal activity. The transition into ictal involved the escape from the saddle point foci in the state space trajectory identified using Newton's method.

Transition to seizure: ictal discharge is preceded by exhausted presynaptic GABA release in the hippocampal CA3 region

How the brain transitions into a seizure is poorly understood. Recurrent seizure-like events (SLEs) in low-Mg2+/ high-K+ perfusate were measured in the CA3 region of the intact mouse hippocampus. The SLE was divided into a "preictal phase," which abruptly turns into a higher frequency "ictal" phase. Blockade of GABA(A) receptors shortened the preictal phase, abolished interictal bursts, and attenuated the slow preictal depolarization, with no effect on the ictal duration, whereas SLEs were blocked by glutamate receptor blockade. In CA3 pyramidal cells and stratum oriens non-fast-spiking and fast-spiking interneurons, recurrent GABAergic IPSCs predominated interictally and during the early preictal phase, synchronous with extracellularly measured recurrent field potentials (FPs). These IPSCs then decreased to zero or reversed polarity by the onset of the higher-frequency ictus. However, postsynaptic muscimol-evoked GABA(A) responses remained intact. Simultaneously, EPSCs synchronous with the FPs markedly increased to a maximum at the ictal onset. The reversal potential of the compound postsynaptic currents (combined simultaneous EPSCs and IPSCs) became markedly depolarized during the preictal phase, whereas the muscimol-evoked GABA(A) reversal potential remained unchanged. During the late preictal phase, interneuronal excitability was high, but IPSCs, evoked by local stimulation, or osmotically by hypertonic sucrose application, were diminished, disappearing at the ictal onset. We conclude that the interictal and early preictal states are dominated by GABAergic activity, with the onset of the ictus heralded by exhaustion of presynaptic release of GABA, and unopposed increased glutamatergic responses.

Dynamic neurovascular coupling and uncoupling during ictal onset, propagation, and termination revealed by simultaneous in vivo optical imaging of neural activity and local blood volume

Traditional models of ictal propagation involve the concept of an initiation site and a progressive outward march of activation. The process of neurovascular coupling, whereby the brain supplies oxygenated blood to metabolically active neurons presumably results in a similar outward cascade of hyperemia. However, ictal neurovascular coupling has never been assessed in vivo using simultaneous measurements of membrane potential change and hyperemia with wide spatial sampling. In an acute rat ictal model, using simultaneous intrinsic optical signal (IOS) and voltage-sensitive dye (VSD) imaging of cerebral blood volume and membrane potential changes, we demonstrate that seizures consist of multiple dynamic multidirectional waves of membrane potential change with variable onset sites that spread through a widespread network. Local blood volume evolves on a much slower spatiotemporal scale. At seizure onset, the VSD waves extend beyond the IOS signal. During evolution, spatial correlation with hemodynamic signal only exists briefly at the maximal spread of the VSD signal. At termination, the IOS signal extends spatially and temporally beyond the VSD waves. Hence, vascular reactivity evolves in a separate but parallel fashion to membrane potential changes resulting in a mechanism of neurovascular coupling and uncoupling, which is as dynamic as the seizure itself.

Capturing the state transitions of seizure-like events using Hidden Markov models

The purpose of this study was to investigate the number of states present in the progression of a seizure-like event (SLE). Of particular interest is to determine if there are more than two clearly defined states, as this would suggest that there is a distinct state preceding an SLE. Whole-intact hippocampus from C57/BL mice was used to model epileptiform activity induced by the perfusion of a low Mg(2+)/high K(+) solution while extracellular field potentials were recorded from CA3 pyramidal neurons. Hidden Markov models (HMM) were used to model the state transitions of the recorded SLEs by incorporating various features of the Hilbert transform into the training algorithm; specifically, 2- and 3-state HMMs were explored. Although the 2-state model was able to distinguish between SLE and nonSLE behavior, it provided no improvements compared to visual inspection alone. However, the 3-state model was able to capture two distinct nonSLE states that visual inspection failed to discriminate. Moreover, by developing an HMM based system a priori knowledge of the state transitions was not required making this an ideal platform for seizure prediction algorithms.

A high aspect ratio microelectrode array for mapping neural activity in vitro

A novel high-aspect-ratio penetrating microelectrode array was designed and fabricated for the purpose of recording neural activity. The array allows two dimensional recording of 64 sites in vitro with high aspect ratio penetrating electrodes. Traditional surface electrode arrays, although easy to fabricate, do not penetrate to the viable tissue such as central hippocampus slices and thus have a lower signal/noise ratio and lower selectivity than a penetrating array. In the unfolded hippocampus preparation, the CA1-CA3 pyramidal cell layer in the whole unfolded rodent hippocampus preparation is encased by the alveus on one side and the Schaffer tract on the other and requires penetrating electrodes for high signal to noise ratio recording. An array of 64 electrode spikes, each with a target height of 200μm and diameter of 20μm, was fabricated in silicon on a transparent glass substrate. The impedance of the individual electrodes was measured to be approximately 1.5MΩ±497kΩ. The signal to noise ratio was measured and found to be 19.4±3dB compared to 3.9±0.8dB S/N for signals obtained with voltage sensitive dye RH414. A mouse unfolded hippocampus preparation was bathed in solution containing 50 micro-molar 4-amino pyridine and a complex two dimensional wave of activity was recorded using the array. These results indicate that this novel penetrating electrode array is able to obtain data superior to that of voltage sensitive dye techniques for broad field two-dimensional neuronal activity recording. When used with the unfolded hippocampus preparation, the combination forms a uniquely capable tool for imaging hippocampal network activity in the entire hippocampus.

Transition to seizure: from "macro"- to "micro"-mysteries

One of the most terrifying aspects of epilepsy is the sudden and apparently unpredictable transition of the brain into the pathological state of an epileptic seizure. The pathophysiology of the transition to seizure still remains mysterious. Herein we review some of the key concepts and relevant literatures dealing with this enigmatic transitioning of brain states. At the "MACRO" level, electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings at time display preictal phenomena followed by pathological high-frequency oscillations at the seizure onset. Numerous seizure prediction algorithms predicated on identifying changes prior to seizure onset have met with little success, underscoring our lack of understanding of the dynamics of transition to seizure, amongst other inherent limitation. We then discuss the concept of synchronized hyperexcited oscillatory networks underlying seizure generation. We consider these networks as weakly coupled oscillators, a concept which forms the basis of some relevant mathematical modeling of seizure transitions. Next, the underlying "MICRO" processes involved in seizure generation are discussed. The depolarization of the GABA(A) chloride reversal potential is a major concept, facilitating epileptogenesis, particularly in immature brain. Also the balance of inhibitory and excitatory local neuronal networks plays an important role in the process of transitioning to seizure. Gap junctional communication, including that which occurs between glia, as well as ephaptic interactions are increasingly recognized as critical for seizure generation. In brief, this review examines the evidence regarding the characterization of the transition to seizure at both the "MACRO" and "MICRO" levels, trying to characterize this mysterious yet critical problem of the brain state transitioning into a seizure.

Orthogonal wave propagation of epileptiform activity in the planar mouse hippocampus in vitro

PURPOSE

In vitro brain preparations have been used extensively to study the generation and propagation of epileptiform activity. Transverse and longitudinal slices of the rodent hippocampus have revealed various patterns of propagation. Yet intact connections between the transverse and longitudinal pathways should generate orthogonal (both transverse and longitudinal) propagation of seizures involving the entire hippocampus. This study utilizes the planar unfolded mouse hippocampus preparation to reveal simultaneous orthogonal epileptiform propagation and to test a method of arresting propagation.

METHODS

This study utilized an unfolded mouse hippocampus preparation. It was chosen due to its preservation of longitudinal neuronal processes, which are thought to play an important role in epileptiform hyperexcitability. 4-Aminopyridine (4-AP), microelectrodes, and voltage-sensitive dye imaging were employed to investigate tissue excitability.

KEY FINDINGS

In 50-μm 4-AP, stimulation of the stratum radiatum induced transverse activation of CA3 cells but also induced a longitudinal wave of activity propagating along the CA3 region at a speed of 0.09 m/s. Without stimulation, a wave originated at the temporal CA3 and propagated in a temporal-septal direction could be suppressed with glutamatergic receptor antagonists. Orthogonal propagation traveled longitudinally along the CA3 pathway, secondarily invading the CA1 region at a velocity of 0.22 ± 0.024 m/s. Moreover, a local lesion restricted to the CA3 region could arrest wave propagation.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results reveal a complex two-dimensional epileptiform wave propagation pattern in the hippocampus that is generated by a combination of synaptic transmission and axonal propagation in the CA3 recurrent network. Epileptiform propagation block via a transverse selective CA3 lesion suggests a potential surgical technique for the treatment of temporal lobe epilepsy.

Synaptic impairment induced by paroxysmal ionic conditions in neocortex

PURPOSE

Seizures are associated with a reduction in extracellular Ca²(+) concentration ([Ca²(+) ](o) ) and an increase in extracellular K(+) concentration ([K(+) ](o) ). The long-range synchrony observed between distant electrodes during seizures is weak. We hypothesized that changes in extracellular ionic conditions during seizures are sufficient to alter synaptic neuronal responses and synchrony in the neocortex.

METHODS

  We obtained in vivo and in vitro electrophysiologic recordings combined with microstimulation from cat/rat neocortical neurons during seizures and seizure-like ionic conditions. In vitro the [K(+) ](o) was 2.8, 6.25, 8.0, and 12 mm and the [Ca²(+) ](o) was 1.2 and 0.6 mm.

KEY FINDINGS

During seizures recorded in vivo, we observed abolition of evoked synaptic responses. In vitro, the membrane potential of both regular-spiking and fast-spiking neurons was depolarized in high [K(+) ](o) conditions and hyperpolarized in high [Ca²(+) ](o) conditions. During high [K(+) ](o) conditions, changes in [Ca²(+) ](o) did not affect membrane potential. The synaptic responsiveness of both regular-spiking and fast-spiking neurons was reduced during seizure-like ionic conditions. A reduction in [Ca²(+) ](o) to 0.6 mm increased failure rates but did not abolish responses. However, an increase in [K(+) ](o) to 12 mm abolished postsynaptic responses, which depended on a blockade in axonal spike propagation.

SIGNIFICANCE

We conclude that concomitant changes in [K(+) ](o) and [Ca²(+) ](o) observed during seizures contribute largely to the alterations of synaptic neuronal responses and to the decrease in long-range synchrony during neocortical seizures.

Scale-free topology of the CA3 hippocampal network: a novel method to analyze functional neuronal assemblies

Cognitive mapping functions of the hippocampus critically depend on the recurrent network of the CA3 pyramidal cells. However, it is still not known in detail how network activity patterns emerge, or how they encode information. By using functional multineuron calcium imaging, we simultaneously recorded the activity of >100 neurons in the CA3 region of hippocampal slice cultures. We utilized a novel computational method to analyze the multichannel spike trains and to depict functional neuronal assemblies. By means of event synchronization and the correlation matrix analysis method, we found that: 1), the average functional neuronal cluster consists of 23 neurons, and neurons could be part of multiple assemblies; 2), the clustering strength, size, and mean distance among cells in neuronal assemblies follow a power-law-like distribution; 3), the clustering strength and size of neuronal assemblies are not correlated with the total number of neurons and their physical distance; and 4), the clustering distance of neuronal assemblies is weakly correlated with the total number of neurons and their physical distance. These findings suggest that the functional organization of the spontaneously firing CA3 hippocampal network is a scale-free structure in slice culture.

Characterizing the persistent CA3 interneuronal spiking activity in elevated extracellular potassium in the young rat hippocampus

Seizures coincide with an increase in extracellular potassium concentrations [K(+)](e) yet little information is available regarding this phenomenon on the firing pattern, frequency and neuronal properties of inhibitory neurons responsible for modulating network excitability. Therefore, we investigated the effects of elevating [K(+)](e) from 2.5 to 12.5mM on CA3 rat hippocampal interneurons in vitro using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. We found that the majority of interneurons (21/25) in artificial cerebral spinal fluid (aCSF) exhibited spontaneous tonic spiking activity. As the [K(+)](e) increased to 12.5mM, interneurons exhibited a tonic, irregular, burst firing activity, or a combination of these. The input resistance decreased significantly to 59+/-18% at 7.5mM K(+) and did not further change at higher [K(+)](e) while the amount of K(+)-induced depolarization significantly increased from 5 to 12.5mM K(+) perfusion; a depolarization block occurred in 4 of the 12 interneurons at 12.5mM. Also, as [K(+)](e) increased, a transition from lower (1.3+/-0.6Hz) to higher dominant peak frequency (15.0+/-5.0Hz) was observed. We found that non-fast spiking (NFS) interneurons represented the majority of cells recorded and exhibited mostly tonic firing activity in raised K(+). Fast spiking (FS) interneurons predominately had a tonic firing pattern with very few exhibiting bursting activity in elevated K(+). In conclusion, we report that raised [K(+)](e) in amounts observed during seizures increases hippocampal CA3 interneuronal activity and suggests that a loss or impairment of inhibitory function may be present during these events.

Stimulation-based anticipation and control of state transitions in the epileptic brain

We focus on the implications that the underlying neuronal dynamics might have on the possibility of anticipating seizures and designing an effective paradigm for their control. Transitions into seizures can be caused by parameter changes in the dynamic state or by interstate transitions as occur in multi-attractor systems; in the latter case, only a weak statistical prognosis of the seizure risk can be achieved. Nevertheless, we claim that by applying a suitable perturbation to the system, such as electrical stimulation, relevant features of the system's state may be detected and the risk of an impending seizure estimated. Furthermore, if these features are detected early, transitions into seizures may be blocked. On the basis of generic and realistic computer models we explore the concept of acute seizure control through state-dependent feedback stimulation. We show that in some classes of dynamic transitions, this can be achieved with a relatively limited amount of stimulation.

Endogenous nitric oxide is a key promoting factor for initiation of seizure-like events in hippocampal and entorhinal cortex slices

Nitric oxide (NO) modulates synaptic transmission, and its level is elevated during epileptic activity in animal models of epilepsy. However, the role of NO for development and maintenance of epileptic activity is controversial. We studied this aspect in rat organotypic hippocampal slice cultures and acute hippocampal-entorhinal cortex slices from wild-type and neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) knock-out mice combining electrophysiological and fluorescence imaging techniques. Slice cultures contained nNOS-positive neurons and an elaborated network of nNOS-positive fibers. Lowering of extracellular Mg(2+) concentration led to development of epileptiform activity and increased NO formation as revealed by NO-selective probes, 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluorofluorescein and 1,2-diaminoanthraquinone sulfate. NO deprivation by NOS inhibitors and NO scavengers caused depression of both EPSCs and IPSCs and prevented initiation of seizure-like events (SLEs) in 75% of slice cultures and 100% of hippocampal-entorhinal cortex slices. This effect was independent of the guanylyl cyclase/cGMP pathway. Suppression of SLE initiation in acute slices from mice was achieved by both the broad-spectrum NOS inhibitor N-methyl-L-arginine acetate and the nNOS-selective inhibitor 7-nitroindazole, whereas inhibition of inducible NOS by aminoguanidine was ineffective, suggesting that nNOS activity was crucial for SLE initiation. Additional evidence was obtained from knock-out animals because SLEs developed in a significantly lower percentage of slices from nNOS(-/-) mice and showed different characteristics, such as prolongation of onset latency and higher variability of SLE intervals. We conclude that enhancement of synaptic transmission by NO under epileptic conditions represents a positive feedback mechanism for the initiation of seizure-like events.

Low-frequency stimulation of the hippocampal CA3 subfield is anti-epileptogenic and anti-ictogenic in rat amygdaloid kindling model of epilepsy

Neuromodulation with low-frequency stimulation (LFS), of brain structures other than epileptic foci, is effective in inhibiting seizures in animals and patients, whereas selection of targets for LFS requires further investigation. The hippocampal CA(3) subfield is a key site in the circuit of seizure generation and propagation. The present study aimed to illustrate the effects of LFS of the CA(3) region on seizure acquisition and generalization in the rat amygdaloid kindling model of epilepsy. We found that LFS (monophasic square-wave pulses, 1Hz, 100 microA and 0.1ms per pulse) of the CA(3) region significantly depressed the duration of epileptiform activity and seizure acquisition by retarding progression from focal to generalized seizures (GS). Moreover, GS duration was significantly shortened and its latency was significantly increased in the LFS group demonstrating an inhibition of the severity of GS and the spread of epileptiform activity. Furthermore, LFS prevented the decline of afterdischarge threshold (ADT) and elevated GS threshold indicating an inhibition of susceptibility to GS. These results suggest that LFS of the hippocampal CA(3) subfield is anti-epileptogenic and anti-ictogenic. Neuromodulation of CA(3) activity using LFS may be an alternative potential approach for temporal lobe epilepsy treatment.