title: Role of androgens in epilepsy.
abstract: Accumulating evidence suggests that both male- and/or female-typical sex steroids contribute to seizure susceptibility in epilepsy. Although there is rich literature regarding how female-typical sex steroids, such as progestins and estrogens, influence epilepsy, the role of androgens in seizure processes are just beginning to be understood. Given that some of the effects and mechanisms of androgen action on ictal activity may converge with that of progestins and/or estrogens, this review discusses what is known concerning the role of each of these sex steroids on seizures. Additionally, evidence that seizures and/or antiepileptic drugs can themselves influence steroid-dependent behaviors, such as affective, cognitive and reproductive function, is also reviewed. Considerations for therapeutic management and future directions for research and drug discovery are summarized.
authors.affiliation: University of New York, Life Sciences Research Building, Room 01058, The University at Albany-SUNY, 1400 Washington Avenue Albany, NY 12222, USA. cafrye@albany.edu
authors.forename: Cheryl A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Frye
mesh_terms: D000728:Androgens / Q000378:metabolism*; D000818:Animals; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001921:Brain / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism*; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008959:Models, Neurological; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000728:Androgens; D000927:Anticonvulsants