Epilepsy: Bridging Epidemiological Landscapes, Molecular Mechanisms, and Emerging Precision Therapeutics

Epilepsy ranks among the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide, and recent years have witnessed significant advancements in understanding its epidemiological features, pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic methodologies, and therapeutic approaches. This review systematically examines the epidemiology of epilepsy, highlighting pronounced regional and population-based disparities, particularly the substantial treatment gap observed in low-income countries. Regarding pathogenesis, epilepsy development involves aberrant ion channel function, neuroinflammatory processes, dysregulation of the mTOR signaling pathway, and genetic predispositions. Diagnostic innovations, including ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging, artificial intelligence-enhanced electroencephalogram analysis, and liquid biopsy techniques, have markedly enhanced the precision of epileptogenic focus localization and etiological identification. Genetic investigations have uncovered numerous epilepsy-associated genes, thereby underpinning the advancement of targeted therapies. Therapeutically, novel antiepileptic drugs, neuromodulation modalities such as vagus nerve stimulation and deep brain stimulation, alongside gene therapy, have expanded treatment options for refractory epilepsy. Nonetheless, global epilepsy management continues to confront challenges including limited drug accessibility, social stigma, and pharmacoresistance. The future trajectory emphasizes individualized and precision medicine approaches, integrating genomics, biomarker discovery, and intelligent monitoring technologies to foster comprehensive improvements in epilepsy diagnosis and treatment.