Decreased density of lymphocyte benzodiazepine receptors in drug-resistant epileptic patients.
Peripheral benzodiazepine receptors (PBR) may have a role in epilepsy and in mediating antiepileptic drug effects. Since PBR in blood mononuclear cells may be acted on by anticonvulsant drugs, we investigated possible modifications of these receptors in newly diagnosed patients, before and after antiepileptic treatment and in drug-resistant epileptic patients. A significantly lower receptor density, with no difference in affinity, was observed in drug-resistant patients, compared to newly diagnosed patients and to normal age-related controls. We suggest the possible use of PBR as a peripheral marker of drug response.
Ferrarese
C
C
Department of Neurology, University of Milan, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy.
Tortorella
R
R
Bogliun
G
G
Beghi
E
E
Cogliati
T
T
Zoia
C
C
Passoni
D
D
Frattola
L
L
D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002452:Cell Count / Q000187:drug effects*; D004351:Drug Resistance; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects*; D008297:Male; D011963:Receptors, GABA-A / Q000187:drug effects*
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D011963:Receptors, GABA-A