Impact of antiepileptic therapy on the brain development
Period of perinatal and early postnatal development represents critical time for future brain functions and capabilities, as brain plasticity permits experiences to shape the immature brain.
The immature brain differs from the adult brain in its response to antiepileptic drugs. Experimental evidence from animal models has revealed that treatment with antiepileptic drugs can alter normal brain development. The immature brain also shows greater variability in pharmacological responses and cognitive or behavioral side effects. The aim of our research is to detect age related differences in pharmacodynamics of antiepileptic drugs and identify possible adverse effects of both clinically used and potential antiepileptic drugs on the brain development and functions later in life. In future, our research can help to develop new, age specific and safe antiepileptic drugs for pediatric patients with epilepsy.
Mikulecká et al, Epilepsy Behav, 2011
Mikulecká et al, Front Behav Neurosci. 2014a
Mikulecká et al, Front Behav Neurosci. 2014b