Evaluation of Novel Therapies Using Spontaneous Seizure Models

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In this webinar, Dr. Cameron Metcalf covers the technical requirements and benefits of spontaneous seizure models, addressing the challenges and optimization of 24/7 video-EEG data collection for epilepsy therapy development.

In the Anticonvulsant Drug Development (ADD) Program, novel compounds are evaluated using a battery of epilepsy models. While traditional drug screening efforts have centered around single administration in evoked seizure models, there has been an increase in efforts toward more etiologically relevant spontaneous seizure models. These efforts require 24/7 video-EEG systems capable of recording multiple animals simultaneously. Further, as the Contract Site for the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program of the NINDS, screening studies are performed using established and validated approaches that require larger group sizes to achieve statistical power for the endpoints.

As such, efforts to screen compounds have required multiple video-EEG recording units using tethered and radio-telemetry systems. The ADD Program has implemented several models with spontaneous seizures and validated these models by screening FDA-approved antiseizure drugs. Novel compounds can then be evaluated and compared to established drugs as part of a preclinical profiling strategy. Studies are completed in a blinded manner, including blinded video-EEG review.

Key Topics:

• Understand technical and scientific requirements for models of spontaneous seizures


• Understand costs/benefits of implementing spontaneous seizure models for therapy development


• Understand the burden of video-EEG data collection, as well as potential solutions for optimizing studies