[HTML][HTML] A ketogenic diet suppresses seizures in mice through adenosine A1 receptors

SA Masino, T Li, P Theofilas… - The Journal of …, 2011 - Am Soc Clin Investig
SA Masino, T Li, P Theofilas, US Sandau, DN Ruskin, BB Fredholm, JD Geiger, E Aronica…
The Journal of clinical investigation, 2011Am Soc Clin Investig
Many individuals with epilepsy benefit from consuming a ketogenic diet, which is similar to
the more commonly known Atkins diet. The underlying molecular reason for this has not
been determined. However, in this issue of the JCI, Masino et al. have elucidated the
mechanism responsible for the antiepileptic effects of the ketogenic diet in mice. The diet is
shown to decrease expression of the enzyme adenosine kinase (Adk), which is responsible
for clearing the endogenous antiepileptic agent adenosine (Ado) from the extracellular CNS …
Abstract
Many individuals with epilepsy benefit from consuming a ketogenic diet, which is similar to the more commonly known Atkins diet. The underlying molecular reason for this has not been determined. However, in this issue of the JCI, Masino et al. have elucidated the mechanism responsible for the antiepileptic effects of the ketogenic diet in mice. The diet is shown to decrease expression of the enzyme adenosine kinase (Adk), which is responsible for clearing the endogenous antiepileptic agent adenosine (Ado) from the extracellular CNS space. Decreased expression of Adk results in increased extracellular Ado, activation of inhibitory Ado A1 receptors, and decreased seizure generation, the desired therapeutic effect. The authors’ work serves to emphasize the importance of controlling Adk expression, not only as the mechanism of action of the ketogenic diet, but also as a potential target of future therapies.
The Journal of Clinical Investigation