Experimental Penicillin-Induced Seizure

ABSTRACT

The penicillin produces seizures when applied directly to cerebral cortex and, in some instances, when given systemically in large amounts. Most studies with this agent have had as their goal the elucidation of neurophysiological mechanisms underlying seizure activity. The present study was undertaken to explore the biochemical events which take place in the presence of an epileptogenic agent and, in particular, to see whether this agent has a direct effect on passive or active cation transport or an effect on energy production within neural tissues. The penicillin-induced seizure activity has been produced by direct injection of an aqueous penicillin G sodium into the cerebral subarachnoid space in rat. It is assumed that penicillin-induced seizure results from the leakage of potassium ions from intracellular compartment and alteration of firing properties of neurons with prolonged depolarization, and disturbances in activities of enzyme involved in glutamine metabolism. Diphenylhydantoin may stimulate cation pumping with activation of (Na+-K+)-ATPase enzyme system and this action may be relevant to its anticonvulsant activity.