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Terpinen-4-ol (4TRP) is a monoterpenoid alcoholic component of essential oils obtained from several aromatic plants. We investigated the psychopharmacological and electrophysiological activities of 4TRP in male Swiss mice and Wistar rats. 4TRP was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) at doses of 25 to 200 mg/kg and intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) at concentrations of 10, 20, and 40 ng/2 μL. For in vitro experiments, 4TRP concentrations were 0.1 mM and 1.0 mM. 4TRP (i.p.) inhibited pentylenetetrazol- (PTZ-) induced seizures, indicating anticonvulsant effects. Electroencephalographic recordings showed that 4TRP (i.c.v.) protected against PTZ-induced seizures, corroborating the behavioural results. To determine whether 4TRP exerts anticonvulsant effects via regulation of GABAergic neurotransmission, we measured convulsions induced by 3-mercapto-propionic acid (3-MP). The obtained results showed involvement of the GABAergic system in the anticonvulsant action exerted by 4TRP, but flumazenil, a selective antagonist of the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor, did not reverse the anticonvulsant effect, demonstrating that 4TRP does not bind to the benzodiazepine-binding site. Furthermore, 4TRP decreased the sodium current through voltage-dependent sodium channels, and thus its anticonvulsant effect may be related to changes in neuronal excitability because of modulation of these channels.

An 8-month-old boy presented to the dermatologist for an evaluation of several cutaneous and skeletal abnormalities. Physical examination showed lobster claw deformity (ectrodactyly) of the right hand (Figure 1), hypoplasia of the left leg, and agenesis of the left foot, with areas of skin atrophy and hypopigmentation following Blaschko's lines (Figure 2). On the scalp, areas of patchy alopecia, with sparse hair and cicatricial aplasia cutislike areas could be visualized (Figure 3). In addition, anteroposterior cranial flattening and facial asymmetry were observed. On the left thigh, there were skin-colored exophytic nodules, areas of skin atrophy with hypopigmentation following Blaschko's lines (Figure 4). On the hand, papular exophytic lesions (papillomas) were observed in a linear arrangement, as well as nail deformities, such as longitudinal lines and fissures of the nail blades. On the trunk and extremities, areas of skin atrophy following Blaschko's lines could also be visualized, with punctate erosions within atrophic areas.On general examination, the baby had a normal psychomotor development for his age. Urologic abnormalities were found on imaging, including right renal agenesis, hypospadias, and bilateral cryptorchidism. Furthermore, a cardiologic examination revealed a ventricular septal defect and a patent foramen ovale. Genetic analysis showed a normal male karyotype (46, XY). There was no parental consanguinity, and no other family members were known to have a similar condition.

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