CSF amino acids in childhood epilepsy

Abstract

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in mammalian brain and alterations in GABAergic function have been postulated to underlie seizure pathogenesis [1,2]. Studies of the GABA content of surgically removed epileptogenic foci have produced varying results with both elevated and low concentrations reported [3–5]. However, there is substantial evidence from experimental and clinical studies that CSF GABA concentrations may reflect central GABAergic activity [6,7]. Although the synthesis, metabolism and distribution of GABA in brain compartments is complex the CSF may provide an accessible means with which to study and follow changes in CNS neurotransmitters. Information on other CSF amino acids in epilepsy [8,9] is limited but it may be the balance between the excitatory amino acids, aspartic and glutamic acids, and inhibitory mechanisms that is important in seizure propensity. We are studying the concentration of GABA and other amino acids in the CSF of children with a variety of seizure disorders and febrile convulsions.