Alteration of circadian rhythm during epileptogenesis: implications for the suprachiasmatic nucleus circuits

Int J Physiol Pathophysiol Pharmacol. 2017 Jun 15;9(3):64-68. eCollection 2017.

Abstract

It is important to realize that characterization of the circadian rhythm patterns of seizure occurrence can implicate in diagnosis and treatment of selected types of epilepsy. Evidence suggests a role for the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) circuits in overall circadian rhythm and seizure susceptibility both in animals and humans. Thus, we conclude that SCN circuits may exert modifying effects on circadian rhythmicity and neuronal excitability during epileptogenesis. SCN circuits will be studied in our brain centre and collaborating centres to explore further the interaction between the circadian rhythm and epileptic seizures. More and thorough research is warranted to provide insight into epileptic seizures with circadian disruption comorbidities such as disorders of cardiovascular parameters and core body temperature circadian rhythms.

Keywords: Suprachiasmatic nucleus; circadian rhythm; epileptic seizures; neural crosstalk.

Publication types

  • Review