The Role of Aquaporins in Epileptogenesis—A Systematic Review

Abstract

Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of membrane proteins involved in the transport of water and ions across cell membranes. AQPs have been shown to be implicated in various physiological and pathological processes in the brain, including water homeostasis, cell migration, and inflammation, among others. Epileptogenesis is a complex and multifactorial process that involves alterations in the structure and function of neuronal networks. Recent evidence suggests that AQPs may also play a role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. In animal models of epilepsy, AQPs have been shown to be upregulated in regions of the brain that are involved in seizure generation, suggesting that they may contribute to the hyperexcitability of neuronal networks. Moreover, genetic studies have identified mutations in AQP genes associated with an increased risk of developing epilepsy. Our review aims to investigate the role of AQPs in epilepsy and seizure onset from a pathophysiological point of view, pointing out the potential molecular mechanism and their clinical implications.

Alterations of apparent diffusion coefficient from ultra high b‐values in the bilateral thalamus and striatum in MRI‐negative drug‐resistant epilepsy

“… 30 , 31 , 32 , 33 There is growing evidences about the role of AQPs play in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, such as ions homeostasis mechanism. 34 We therefore hypothesized that eDWI technique is useful in exploring potential microenvironment change in the subcortical nuclei of drug‐resistant epilepsy in vivo.…”

Special Issue “Aquaporins in Brain Disease”

“…Bonosi, L. et al [ 4 ] highlight the roles of AQPs in mediating certain pathological processes related to the genesis of epilepsy. Therefore, although epilepsy is a pathology mainly associated with impaired neuronal transmission, many accumulated studies have demonstrated the important role that astrocytes and, particularly, the expression of AQP4 on their membrane, have in the hydro-electrolyte balance necessary for neuronal activity.…”