Experimental Studies in Epilepsy: Immunologic and Inflammatory Mechanisms

In this paper we review the literature based on experimental studies leading credence to a relationship between epilepsy and immune-mediated mechanisms linked to Central Nervous System (CNS) innate immunity. The brain innate immunity responses to neuronal injury or to excessive neuronal activity are mediated by resident microglia and astroglia, but also neurons play an immunomodulatory role. Antigens or antibodies applied to the brain trigger an epileptogenic and inflammatory response. Furthermore, seizure activity and status epilepticus elicit the production and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.
Source: Seminars in Pediatric Neurology - Category: Neurology Authors: Source Type: research