Understanding the Role of Glia-Neuron Communication in the Pathophysiology of Epilepsy: A Review

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that causes repeated seizures. It affects 65 million people worldwide and is a major burden on individuals and health systems. It has been reported that factors leading to ion channel disfuntion, neuronal damage and are all involved in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. The exact etipathogenic mechanism is unknown and appropriate therapeutic targets remain elusive. Recent studies point to a significant contribution by non-neuronal cells, the glia-especially astrocytes and microglia-in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. This review critically evaluates the role of glia-induced hyperexcitability in the pathogenesis of epilepsy to provide a better understanding of the contribution of glia to epilepsy.