Abstract
To explore the effects of cortical spreading depression (CSD), an intrinsic brain event underlying migraine aura, on the excitability of the human neocortex, the authors conducted in vitro electrophysiological studies on slices from human temporal lobe that were obtained during epilepsy surgery. Neocortical slices were prepared from 13 different patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy. CSD was induced by KCl application to the sixth layer of neocortical tissue, and evoked extracellular field potentials and long-term potentiation (LTP) were induced by single or tetanic stimulation of white matter substance. Local application of KCl consistently induced spreading depressions (SDs). Baseline field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) temporarily disappeared during CSD for 3―5 min and recovered completely approximately 20 min later. Further recordings revealed that CSD significantly enhanced the amplitude of EPSPs for the next 90 min and increased the induction of LTP in the third layer of neocortical tissues. The authors concluded that CSD facilitates synaptic excitability and efficacy in human neocortical tissues, which can be assumed to contribute to hyperexcitability of the cerebral cortex in migraineurs.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
