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Epigenetic principles underlying epileptogenesis and epilepsy syndromes
Karen Conboy1, David C Henshall1, Gary P Brennan2
1Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland.
Neurobiology of Disease
|November 12, 2020
Summary
Epigenetic changes in gene expression are key drivers of epilepsy. Targeting these epigenetic mechanisms offers promising new therapeutic strategies for epilepsy treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Epilepsy is a complex network disorder originating from cellular dysfunction.
- Aberrant gene expression and regulation significantly contribute to epilepsy's cellular pathology.
- Epigenetic modifications are increasingly recognized as crucial regulators of the epileptic transcriptome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of epileptogenic brain insults on epigenetic gene regulation.
- To discuss current efforts in targeting epigenetic processes for epilepsy prevention.
- To explore the potential of epigenetic-based therapies and enabling technologies for epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on epigenetics and epilepsy.
- Analysis of studies investigating epigenetic modifications in response to brain insults.
- Examination of therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic regulation influences neuronal structure, neurotransmitter systems, and ion channel function in epilepsy.
- Targeting epigenetic processes shows potential for blocking epileptogenesis.
- Technological advancements are improving the study of the epigenome.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are critical in the development and progression of epilepsy.
- Epigenetic-based therapies represent a promising frontier for treating epilepsy.
- Further research into the epigenome is essential for developing novel epilepsy treatments.
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