3.2.2 WAG/Rij rats
Created as an animal model for epilepsy in humans, WAG/Rij rats exhibit
EEG and behavioral traits similar to absence epilepsy, including the
exact mechanisms of action as different Antiseizure medications. They
show properties similar to gain-of-function in calcium and sodium
channels [39].
- Advantages: In a single animal model, WAG/Rij rats present a
rare chance to research the absence of epilepsy and depressive-like
behaviors.
- Disadvantages: Even because WAG/Rij rats display
depressed-like traits, they could not accurately reflect the range of
depressive illnesses in humans
- Tottering 6j mouse
The study by KIM YT et al. aimed to investigate whether tottering-6j
mice exhibited absence-like seizures. EEG and behavioral data were
collected, revealing that tottering-6j mice displayed 5-8 Hz
spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) in the bilateral cortex, accompanied by
sudden immobility and staring. The study further explored the effects of
Antiseizure Medication on these absence-like seizures in tottering-6j
mice. Episodic sodium channel modulator (ESM) by Valproic acid (VPA)
significantly inhibited SWD development at 20-40 minutes and 60-80
minutes after administration [40]
Advantages: Tottering-6j mice, a recognized and widely used
absence seizure model. The study examines how absence-like seizures
are affected by Antiseizure medications (ESM, VPA, and PHT).
Disadvantages: The study needs to detail the underlying
mechanisms of how the Cav2.1a1 subunit contributes to absence-like
seizures, which is lacking.