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A Behavioral Screen for Heat-Induced Seizures in Mouse Models of Epilepsy
06:58

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Published on: July 12, 2021

Neurobiological and physiological mechanisms of fever-related epileptiform syndromes

Sebastian Schuchmann1, Sampsa Vanhatalo, Kai Kaila

  • 1Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.

Brain & Development
|February 10, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Febrile seizures in children may be caused by rapid breathing leading to respiratory alkalosis and increased brain neuronal excitability. This finding suggests new genetic factors and therapies targeting brain pH regulation.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pediatrics
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Febrile seizures (FS) are common in children.
  • Previous research on experimental febrile seizures (eFS) focused on consequences, not mechanisms.
  • Animal models often use hyperthermic environments for eFS studies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the underlying mechanisms of experimental febrile seizures (eFS).
  • To explore the role of respiratory changes and acid-base balance in eFS.
  • To identify potential novel genetic factors and therapeutic targets for FS.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized animal models (rat and mice pups) in hyperthermic conditions.
  • Monitored physiological parameters, including respiration rate.
  • Analyzed the impact of respiratory alkalosis on brain function and neuronal excitability.

Main Results:

  • A significant increase in respiration rate precedes eFS.
  • Respiratory alkalosis was identified as a direct cause of eFS by increasing neuronal excitability.
  • Brain pH emerges as a critical factor in FS etiology.

Conclusions:

  • The study proposes a novel mechanism for eFS involving respiratory alkalosis.
  • Findings suggest that factors influencing CO(2) chemosensitivity and acid-base regulation are crucial.
  • Novel susceptibility genes related to pH-sensitive proteins and pH regulation are implicated in FS.

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