THE IMPACT OF H YPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-ADRENAL SYSTEM HORMONES ON EPILEPTOGENESIS

Some issues concerning the impact of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system (HPAS) hormones on epileptogenesis are discussed in the article. It was found, that they have a direct and indirect impact. Direct effect implies the reduction of excitation level in the brain cells by affecting membrane channels and receptors involved in the regulation of certain neurotransmitters synthesis. Indirect effect is realized through positive influence on the brain neurons maturation process, leveling the stimulation of excitation processes mediated by biologically active substances, ions and other agents. Adrenocorticotropic hormone and glucocorticosteroids are the main hormones used in antiepileptic therapy. They have an impact both on epileptogenesis itself, and on induction/inhibition of their own effects in accordance with a feedback mechanism of hormones secretion. The mechanism of antiepileptic action of HPAS hormones allows considering them as true antiepileptic drugs for treatment of drug-resistant and special forms of epilepsy.