Disordered autonomic function during exposure to moderate heat or exercise in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome

Authors
N Sahai, AM Bard, O Devinsky, et al

Lab
Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, USA

Journal
Neurobiology of Disease

Abstract
We found novel abnormalities that expand the spectrum of interictal, ictal, and postictal autonomic dysregulation in DS mice. During mild heat stress, there was a significantly blunted correction of body temperature, and a less suppression of both HR and respiration rate in DS than WT mice. These effects were seen in mice with selective KO of Scn1A in GABAergic neurons. During exercise stress, there was diminished increase in HR, followed by an exaggerated HR suppression and HRV elevation during recovery in DS mice compared to controls. These findings suggest that different environmental stressors can uncover distinct autonomic disturbances in DS mice. Interneurons play an important role in thermoregulation. Understanding the spectrum and mechanisms of autonomic disorders in DS may help develop more effective strategies to prevent seizures and SUDEP.

BIOSEB Instruments Used:
Passive avoidance (LE870),Treadmill (BX-TM)