Targeting Pannexin1 Improves Seizure Outcome
Author Information
Author(s): Santiago Marcelo F., Veliskova Jana, Patel Naman K., Lutz Sarah E., Caille Dorothee, Charollais Anne, Meda Paolo, Scemes Eliana
Primary Institution: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Hypothesis
Pannexin1 channels may contribute to seizures by increasing the levels of extracellular ATP.
Conclusion
Interference with Pannexin1 improves seizure outcomes and shortens the duration of seizures in mice.
Supporting Evidence
- Blockade or deletion of Pannexin1 channels reduced ATP release during seizures.
- Behavioral analysis showed significant improvements in seizure scores with Pannexin1 interference.
- Elevated extracellular potassium activates Pannexin1 channels, contributing to seizures.
Takeaway
Scientists found that blocking a specific channel in the brain called Pannexin1 can help reduce the severity and duration of seizures in mice.
Methodology
The study used pharmacological tools and two transgenic mice deficient for Pannexin1 to assess seizure outcomes.
Limitations
The study was conducted on juvenile mice, which may not fully represent adult seizure responses.
Participant Demographics
Juvenile mice (postnatal day 13-14) of C57Bl/6 background were used.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website