Epilepsy is characterized by sudden and uncontrolled seizures resulting from neural cell activity in the brain. According to scientists, current medications used to regulate neural functions are ineffective in about 30% of cases. This ineffectiveness is because seizures may affect not only neural cells but also astrocytes, which support and nourish neural cells. However, the role of astrocytes in this process is not yet fully understood: whether they stimulate or inhibit neural hyperactivity.
Scientists have developed a computational model that includes astrocyte networks. The results showed that high neural activity during a seizure increases the amount of the amino acid glutamate, which activates astrocytes. In response, astrocytes release an “inhibitory” molecule that suppresses the transmission of excitatory signals. Thus, spontaneous bursts of neural activity also stopped automatically under the influence of astrocytes.
The scientists concluded that the speed and efficiency of astrocytes in regulating excessive neural excitement depend on their intrinsic state. Therefore, new epilepsy treatments could aim to enhance the protective and anticonvulsant functions of these cells.
The Governor of Nizhny Novgorod region, Gleb Nikitin, commented on this scientific achievement, stating: “What was science fiction yesterday has become reality today thanks to our scientists. This new study is a shining example of how Nizhny Novgorod science impacts the future of people. We are proud to launch projects of this level in our region, where cutting-edge research at Niemark University meets the long-standing traditions of Lobachevsky University.”
At this stage, scientists face the task of verifying their results using clinical data from various sources. Based on this, they plan to develop a medical decision support system that enables predicting the onset of pathological activity.
