Lasting changes in NMDAR1 mRNA level in various regions of cerebral cortex in epileptogenesis of amygdaloid-kindled rat

Abstract

The involvement of NMDA receptor subunit, NR1, with kindling phenomenon has been reported, but the role of NR1 in epileptogenesis is still unknown. We have examined the expression levels of NR1 mRNA in the cerebral cortices of amygdaloid-kindled rats. Northern blot analysis showed a significant increase in NR1 mRNA expression level in the ipsilateral frontal and temporal cortices at 4 weeks after the last generalized seizure. At the same time, NR1 mRNA decreased in the bilateral piriform cortices. These data suggest that NR1-mediated transmission may have an impact in the neurobiological basis of enduring epileptogenesis.