Magdalena Smolik, Magdalena Czuma-Pokusa

In vivo models in the research of novel antiepileptic drugs – a systematic review

 

2025-12-11

Study Subject. Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders globally. Despite the availability of a wide range of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) used to suppress seizures, approximately one-third of patients develop drug-resistant epilepsy. The use of in vivo models can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying pharmacoresistance and contribute to the development of novel antiepileptic therapies.

Aim of the study. Providing detailed information on animal models of drug-resistant epilepsy used in preclinical research. Additionally, it presents other in vivo models involved in epilepsy studies, classified according to the method of seizure induction or presented disease phenotype.

Materials and methods. Literature data were collected using the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. The selection of sources was based on combinations of keywords (“epilepsy”, “seizures”, “AEDs”, “anti-epileptic drugs”, “drug-resistant epilepsy”, “pharmacoresistant epilepsy”, “Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program” / “ETSP”, “in vivo models”, “ILAE”, “epileptogenesis”), article type, and publication date.

Results. A number of in vivo models of epilepsy and seizures have been established that reflect the pathophysiological characteristics observed in human pharmacoresistant epilepsy.

These models can be divided into per se models (definied by poor response to conventional AEDs) and models with selection of responsive and nonresponsive groups of animals. Using available drug-resistant epilepsy models, the efficacy of several antiepileptic compounds, either in development or already marketed, has been demonstrated.

Conclusions. Although in vivo models have certain limitations, their application can enhance the process of developing new AEDs and facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying epilepsy development. Future research should focus on the development of new and the refinement of existing animal models, as well as on the integration of data derived from various models to establish a comprehensive and holistic understanding of epilepsy.

Keywords: epilepsy, seizure, in vivo models, drug resistance.

© Farm Pol, 2025, 81(5): 267–286