A combined astrocyte – G-lymphatic model of epilepsy initiation, maintenance and termination

Avinoam Rabinovitch, Ira Aviramd, Yaacov Biton, Doron Braunstein

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

Although epilepsy afflicts numerous people worldwide, its dynamics are still controversial. Especially seizure termination is relatively unidentified. Here we suggest a coherent explanation to all stages of epilepsy, its genesis, seizure initiation and termination. We present biophysical features that could account for the phenomenon: all phases of epilepsy can be related to the brain's “waste disposal” systems. Although problems in the astrocytic system have already been suggested as a major player in this malfunction, the termination phase is not really understood. Here it is assumed to arise from a G-lymphatic clearance system. Our biophysical mechanism provides a coherent explanation of the phenomenon, offers support for the previously published mathematical model, and can shed light on the conflicting results encountered in norepinephrine measurements in epilepsy treatment.

Original languageEnglish
Article number109384
JournalMedical Hypotheses
Volume133
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Dec 2019

Keywords

  • Epilepsy stages
  • G-lymphatic system
  • Ictal termination by brain's waste disposal

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A combined astrocyte – G-lymphatic model of epilepsy initiation, maintenance and termination'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this