Kindling

Kindling is a phenomenon in neurology where repeated exposure to sub-threshold stimuli leads to an exaggerated response in neurons. This phenomenon is observed in several neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

Overview

Kindling was first described by Graham Goddard in 1967. He observed that repeated electrical stimulation of the brain at a level that did not initially produce seizures, eventually led to the development of spontaneous seizures. This phenomenon has been used as a model for understanding the development of epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

Mechanism

The exact mechanism of kindling is not fully understood. However, it is believed to involve changes in the synaptic plasticity of neurons. Repeated stimulation leads to an increase in the strength of synaptic connections, which in turn leads to an increased response to subsequent stimuli. This process is thought to involve changes in the expression of ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors.

Clinical significance

Kindling has been implicated in the development of several neurological and psychiatric disorders. In epilepsy, kindling may explain why some people develop seizures after repeated exposure to sub-threshold stimuli. In bipolar disorder, kindling may explain why episodes of mania and depression become more frequent and severe over time. In alcohol withdrawal syndrome, kindling may explain why withdrawal symptoms become more severe with each subsequent episode of withdrawal.

See also

• Long-term potentiation
• Neuroplasticity
• Post-acute withdrawal syndrome

References

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