In vitro Models of Epileptic-Like Activity
The modeling of acute seizures in vitro is one of the key methods for obtaining information about the mechanisms of generation, propagation, and termination of epileptiform activity. Acute pharmacological effects, the effect of electrical stimulation on brain tissue, changes in synaptic transmission during epileptiform discharges are studied using in vitro models. Using in vitro models simplifies the delivery of chemical agents and ensures the mechanical stability of electrophysiological recording due to the absence of artifacts associated with heartbeat and breathing. Also, the use of in vitro models means that the structures of the ventral surface of the brain that lies at the base of the skull become more accessible for electrophysiological studies. The review describes the main in vitro models of epileptic activity, discusses their strengths and limitations, and also the field of their application.