A Mouse Kindling Model of Perimenstrual Catamenial Epilepsy

The study developed a mouse model to explore catamenial epilepsy, focusing on how neurosteroid fluctuations affected seizure susceptibility. It was found that elevated neurosteroid levels reduced seizures, while withdrawal increased their frequency and intensity, linked to changes in GABAA receptor subunit composition, particularly increased α4 and δ subunits in the hippocampus. These findings suggested that neurosteroids had a protective effect against seizures, and their withdrawal, akin to menstrual cycles, worsened seizure activity. This model offered insights into the mechanisms of perimenstrual catamenial epilepsy and potential therapeutic strategies.