Overview

The idea for this book has evolved from our desire to present a conceptual approach to the study of neurotransmitters in epilepsy. Such an approach requires an understanding of the function of neurotransmitter systems in various experimental models of epilep- sy. Toward this goal we have included in this book chapters on neurotransmitter systems in nine different epilepsy models. To com- plete the coverage of this topic, there is a chapter on the role of selected neurotransmitters in the various types of human epilep- sies. In the final chapter the editors integrated the neurotransmit- ter data from the various epilepsy models into a matrix from which a better understanding of the function of these neurotransmitters in modulating epileptogenesis may be obtained. The information found in this book is not the result of a sym- posium on this topic, but rather a review of available information on neurotransmitters in each of the experimental models. The evi- dence is presented by knowledgeable researchers using these models. This approach gives a current, broader, and more thorough presentation of each of the topics. We therefore feel that this is not just a glimpse at the subject matter, but a panoramic view of the topic.