Novel Insights in Chronic Epilepsy—from Molecular Mechanisms to Future Therapies

Dear Colleagues,

Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. The World Health Organization has estimated that about 50 to 52 million people have the disease globally. The first medication for epilepsy, bromide, was introduced back in 1856 and today there are more than 20 antiseizure medications available. Despite this progress, current medications fail to control seizures in about one-third of epilepsy patients. Our knowledge of how epilepsy develops and how it affects the brain over time is still limited. Additionally, there are many different underlying mechanisms and pathological processes that can lead to epilepsy, including genetic factors, metabolic conditions, developmental disorders, infections, brain injury and neurodegenerative disorders, to mention some. This diversity makes it difficult to find a one-size-fits-all treatment.

At the same time, developments in new technologies to understand the brain are advancing rapidly. Neuroscientists are now acquiring more advanced and novel tools that allow for in-depth research into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of epilepsy in ways that were not possible just a few years ago. Technologies such as gene expression profiling, high-density EEG systems and advanced microscopy imaging provide detailed insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of epilepsy, while tools like optogenetics, chemogenetics and genetic manipulation enable the investigation of potential therapeutic targets. This Special Issue aims to delve into the latest advances in the molecular mechanisms and possible treatment approaches for chronic epilepsy.

Dr. Kjell Heuser
Dr. Cecilie Nome
Guest Editors

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