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Effect of kainate-induced seizures on tissue trace element concentrations in the rat
G F Carl1, J W Critchfield, J L Thompson
1Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912.
Abstract:
It has been shown that epileptics have lower mean blood concentration of manganese than do controls but the cause of this abnormality has not been determined. In order to investigate the effects of seizures on manganese distribution in the body, rats were treated with kainic acid to produce spontaneous seizures which were quantitated for number and severity. Manganese, zinc, copper and iron concentrations were determined in blood, brain, liver, heart and kidney. Kainate-treated animals ate more food but gained less weight than controls. Liver and kidney manganese concentrations were significantly higher in kainate-treated animals than in controls. Blood manganese concentration showed a significant negative correlation with seizure index while heart manganese concentration showed a significant positive correlation with seizure index. None of the other trace elements showed a significant correlation between trace element concentration and seizure index in any of the tissues, although iron concentration was lower in brain and copper concentration was lower in kidney of kainate-treated animals than in their appropriate controls. These data show that manganese concentrations are generally elevated in tissues of kainate-treated animals. This increased manganese concentration may be related to the increased energy demand of these animals.
Insights
Epileptic seizures alter manganese distribution, increasing its levels in rat liver and kidneys. Blood manganese levels decreased with higher seizure severity, while heart manganese increased, suggesting a link to energy demands.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Trace Element Metabolism
Background:
- Epilepsy is associated with lower manganese levels in human blood.
- The impact of seizures on manganese distribution in the body remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how seizures affect manganese distribution in various body tissues.
- To explore the relationship between seizure activity and trace element concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Rats were induced with kainic acid to model spontaneous seizures.
- Seizure number and severity were quantified.
- Manganese, zinc, copper, and iron concentrations were measured in blood, brain, liver, heart, and kidney.
Main Results:
- Kainate-treated rats exhibited elevated manganese concentrations in the liver and kidneys compared to controls.
- Blood manganese showed a negative correlation with seizure index, while heart manganese showed a positive correlation.
- Other trace elements (zinc, copper, iron) did not consistently correlate with seizure index, though some tissue-specific reductions were observed.
Conclusions:
- Seizures significantly alter manganese distribution, leading to increased concentrations in specific tissues like the liver and kidney.
- The observed changes in manganese levels may be linked to the increased metabolic or energy demands associated with seizure activity.