New study shows key role of synaptic plasticity in modulating brain function in patients with epilepsy

The mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by excessive electrical activity in the brain, remain unknown. Now, using a novel radiotracer ([11C]K-2, the first technology to visualize and quantify α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) in the living human brain), researchers from Japan have been able to offer insight into the role of AMPAR trafficking in epileptogenesis. Their findings could lead to the development of novel therapeutics for patients with epilepsy.