Effects of valproic acid in cultured mammalian neurons

Valproic acid (VPA) has been postulated to exert its anticonvulsant effects by interaction with the postsynaptic GABA receptor. To test that hypothesis, we applied VPA in clinically appropriate concentrations to cortical neurons in dissociated cell culture. VPA did not enhance the postsynaptic effect of GABA, but did decrease the generation of sodium-dependent action potentials. VPA may exert anticonvulsant effects by inhibiting spike generation, independent of the GABAergic system.