Paper
Gap Junction Blockers: An Overview of their Effects on Induced Seizures in Animal Models
Published Sep 30, 2016 · J. Manjarrez-Marmolejo, Javier Franco-Pérez
Current Neuropharmacology
87
Citations
7
Influential Citations
Abstract
Abstract: Background Gap junctions are clusters of intercellular channels allowing the bidirectional pass of ions directly into the cytoplasm of adjacent cells. Electrical coupling mediated by gap junctions plays a role in the generation of highly synchronized electrical activity. The hypersynchronous neuronal activity is a distinctive characteristic of convulsive events. Therefore, it has been postulated that enhanced gap junctional communication is an underlying mechanism involved in the generation and maintenance of seizures. There are some chemical compounds characterized as gap junction blockers because of their ability to disrupt the gap junctional intercellular communication. Objective Hence, the aim of this review is to analyze the available data concerning the effects of gap junction blockers specifically in seizure models. Results Carbenoxolone, quinine, mefloquine, quinidine, anandamide, oleamide, heptanol, octanol, meclofenamic acid, niflumic acid, flufenamic acid, glycyrrhetinic acid and retinoic acid have all been evaluated on animal seizure models. In vitro, these compounds share anticonvulsant effects typically characterized by the reduction of both amplitude and frequency of the epileptiform activity induced in brain slices. In vivo, gap junction blockers modify the behavioral parameters related to seizures induced by 4-aminopyridine, pentylenetetrazole, pilocarpine, penicillin and maximal electroshock. Conclusion Although more studies are still required, these molecules could be a promising avenue in the search for new pharmaceutical alternatives for the treatment of epilepsy.
Literature Review
Highly CitedGap junction blockers show potential in reducing seizure amplitude and frequency in animal models, suggesting they could be promising new pharmaceutical alternatives for treating epilepsy.
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