Abstract
ABSTRACT.The equivalent of epileptic EEG discharges on the cellular level are paroxysmal depolarization shifts (PDS). This paper reviews mechanisms involved in the initiation of epileptic discharges, PDS generation, transition from interictal to ictal discharges, and ictal epileptic activity, focussing on the role of calcium ions in these different steps of epileptogenesis. Intrinsic and synaptically elicited transmembranous calcium currents play a critical role in the regulation of neuronal excitability; large intracellular calcium accumulations as found during intense epileptic activity may even lead to cell death. Different approaches to the development of new antiepileptic drugs based on the mechanisms of action of calcium ions in epileptogenesis are discussed.
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