Neurons, networks, seizures, and how to control them.

Diverse subtypes of neurons form complex networks and sets of activities. Each neuronal subtype is in part distinguished by its action potential firing pattern. For normal brain function, there exists dynamic balance of excitatory and inhibitory neuron and network activity. In pathological conditions, like epilepsy, the intricate excitation/inhibition balance is upset. This dysfunction can be attributed to loss of inhibition, increases in excitability, and a number of other known and postulated biological mechanisms. Thus, one of the main challenges is to understand the history and regimes of individual neuron and network activity that lead to and reflect formation of seizures. The other important challenges are to prevent formation and to control already precipitated seizure activities. This talk will discuss our past and recent findings on the neuronal mechanisms of seizure formation and novel methods of seizure control in vitro and in vivo.