AJP - Cell Physiology, Vol 251, Issue 5 774-C779, Copyright © 1986 by American Physiological Society
Status epilepticus-induced changes in primate cortical energy metabolism
D. W. McCandless, J. F. DeFrance, S. Dworsky and E. Presley-Zimmer
The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in cortical energy
metabolism in experimentally induced seizures in the primate. Cynamologus
fascicularis monkeys were anesthetized, and a craniotomy was performed.
Small samples from the motor cortex were removed for measurement of energy
metabolites just prior to intravenous bicuculline infusion (0.6 mg/kg), 20
min after the onset of seizures, and 2 h after the second sample. Samples
were also taken for electron microscopy. Results showed decreased
phosphocreatine values 20 min after the onset of seizures, whereas ATP
levels were normal. Two hours after the onset of seizures, phosphocreatine
had returned to normal, but ATP levels were below normal. Examination of
tissue by electron microscopy showed evidence of cell damage 2 h, 20 min
after the onset of seizures. These findings are consistent with the concept
that sustained seizures may lead to irreversible cell damage and that
alterations in energy metabolism may contribute to the cell death.
