Work

Ondansetron reduces seizures and improves cognitive impairment in a rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: receptor antagonist widely used as an antiemetic, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in preclinical models of several neurological disorders. However, its potential therapeutic efficacy in chronic TLE has not yet been investigated. In this study, we evaluated ondansetron's effects on spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS), cognitive function, and hippocampal neurodegeneration in a pilocarpine-induced rat model of chronic TLE. Rats received three weeks of intraperitoneal ondansetron, after which spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS), cognitive performance, and hippocampal neurodegeneration were assessed. Levels of key neurotransmitters (glutamate, GABA), markers of oxidative stress, and inflammatory cytokines were also measured. Ondansetron treatment significantly reduced SRS frequency, improved cognitive function, attenuated hippocampal impairment, and suppressed synaptic remodeling. It also lowered glutamate levels, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. The anti‑epileptic and neuroprotective effects of ondansetron in TLE may be attributed to its multi‑faceted properties, including anti‑inflammatory, anti‑oxidative, neurotransmitter‑modulating, and synaptic‑stabilizing properties. These findings highlight ondansetron as a promising candidate for adjunctive therapy in drug‑resistant TLE.

Source: IBRO Neuroscience Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2025.12.009

Authors: Yao Zhang, Ying Sun, Jie Gao, Juan Ni

Institutions: Nanjing General Hospital of Nanjing Military Command, Nanjing University

Language: English

Topic: Epilepsy research and treatment

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,400