Antiepileptic drugs targeting sodium channels: subunit and neuron-type specific interactions

Certain antiepileptic drugs (e.g. carbamazepine and lamotrigine) block sodium channels in an use-dependent manner and this mechanism contributes to the anti-convulsant properties of these drugs. There are, however, subtle differences in sodium current blocking properties of the antiepileptic drugs when they interact with the different brain sodium channel α-subunits. In his research, Xin Qiao attempts to show that a deeper and more complete understanding of how antiepileptic drugs interact with different sodium channel α-subunits and different neuron types can facilitate the development of new antiepileptic drugs with improved therapeutic efficacy.