Oxidative stress is involved in seizure-induced neurodegeneration in the kindling model of epilepsy

Reactive oxygen species have been implicated in the development of seizures under pathological conditions and linked to seizure-induced neurodegenerat ion. There has been little direct evidence, however, of free radical produc tion resulting from seizures. Using amygdala-kindled rats, we have examined the generation of reactive oxygen species following seizures, and their po ssible contribution to seizure development and seizure-induced neuronal los s. The concentrations of two products of free radical-induced lipid peroxid ation, malonaldehyde and 4-hydroxy-2(E)-nonenal, were measured using colori metric assays. Lipid peroxidation was increased in both hemispheres of kind led rats as compared to sham-operated controls. Cell death was also signifi cantly increased in all hippocampal areas. Antioxidants (vitamin E and glut athione) prevented the rise in lipid peroxides and hippocampal neuronal dea th during kindling, but did not arrest the development of seizures. Thus, epileptiform activity can result in free radical production which may be one of the factors leading to cell death. (C) 2000 IBRO. Published by E lsevier Science Ltd.