Neuropeptide Y and epilepsy: varying effects according to seizure type andreceptor activation

In vitro and in vivo experiments suggest antiepileptic properties for NPY. In this study, the pharmacology of these effects was examined and compared in different rat models of seizures. Agonists for Y-1, Y-2 and Y-3 receptor s reduced seizure-like activity in hippocampal cultures. Intracerebral inje ction of NPY or Y-5 agonists reduced the expression of focal seizures produ ced by a single electrical stimulation of the hippocampus. Conversely, NPY agonists increased the duration of generalized convulsive seizures induced by pentylenetetrazol. These results suggest that NPY reduces seizures of hi ppocampal origin through activation of Y-5 receptors. They also point to pr obable modulatory effects of NPY in brain structures other than the hippoca mpus, involved in initiation, propagation or control of seizures. (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science Inc.