First tests carried out on rats in the laboratory concerning a new system to stop progression of epilepsy give hope to patients who do not respond to drug treatment, ie 30% of cases. This disease, which affects 0.6 to 0.7% of the population in France, manifests itself in seizures resulting from an abnormal and simultaneous discharge of thousands of neurons, explains the National Institute of Health and Medical Research. (Inserm) on its site.
However, American researchers from the Legacy Research Institute (Portland), Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU) and Tufts University (Boston) have studied the effects of adenosine, a molecule released by neurons known to reduce seizures. In a study published by the journal The Journal of clinical investigation, scientists say they have developed silk implants designed to release this substance. Placed in the brains of epileptic rats, these implants resulted in a significant improvement in the disease over the long term.
The researchers estimate that for a 10-day treatment of adenosine, the action of the molecule lasts about three months. These implants, which are biodegradable and completely dissolve after releasing adenosine, have yet to be tested in human patients, but they open the door to a new form of treatment that could significantly change the daily lives of patients.
