Epilepsy In Vitro Models

4-AP model SCN1A model

Developmental Model

Epilepsy, a prevalent neurological disorder, manifests as recurrent unprovoked seizures across various syndromes. Despite advancements in antiepileptic drugs, a significant proportion of patients remain unresponsive to current treatments, highlighting the need for novel antiepileptic drugs.

At NeuroProof, we address this challenge with cutting-edge in vitro screening assays designed to probe the mechanisms of epileptogenesis and evaluate the efficacy of emerging antiepileptic compounds. Our assays offer a deeper understanding of the epileptic condition and aid in the development of targeted therapies. Burst events and synchronization effects describe seizures or ictal events in MEA recordings.

Our Approach:

Diverse Assay Models: We have developed specialized in vitro models tailored to our MEA approach and sophisticated data analysis to investigate different aspects of epilepsy, including:

4-AP Model:
Mimics epileptiform activity induced by 4-aminopyridine, aiding in the study of seizure mechanisms. This model is capable to assess potential therapeutic effects of antiepileptic drugs.
SCN1A Model:
Focuses on mutations in the SCN1A gene associated with Dravet syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy. This model uses adeno-associated virus constructs to knock down the SCN1A gene.
Developmental Model:
Explores the impact of developmental factors on epileptogenesis, offering insights into early intervention strategies. This model shows ictal events in its electrophysiological recordings, which can be correlated with EEG data of epileptic seizures in vivo data.

Primary Neurons
We use primary frontal cortex or hippocampal cultures from mouse.
Human iPSC-Derived Neurons: Our assays leverage human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, enhancing translational relevance and facilitating drug discovery in a human-specific context.
Comprehensive Analysis: Utilizing advanced classification algorithms, we assess the excitatory or pro-convulsive potential of test compounds. Our side-effect assays provide valuable insights into compound safety profiles.
Probing Pro-Convulsive Mechanisms: Our technology enables the investigation of pro-convulsive compounds such as picrotoxin, shedding light on their effects on network activity and ictal-like discharges in frontal cortex cultures.

Why Choose NeuroProof for Your Epilepsy Research:

Expertise: Our team comprises experts in neuroscience, pharmacology, and assay development, dedicated to advancing epilepsy research and drug discovery.
Innovation: We continuously refine our assays and technologies to stay at the forefront of epilepsy research, offering state-of-the-art solutions to our clients.
Validated Models: We have tested antiepileptic drugs, negative controls, and seizurogeneic compounds to a broad extent.
Collaboration: We welcome collaborations with research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms to accelerate the development of novel therapies for epilepsy.

Contact Us:

For further information on our epilepsy assays and how they can drive your research forward.