Enhanced epileptogenicity of area tempestas in the immature rat

Age-related differences in kindling have been previously observed in terms of behavioral manifestations, seizure generalization and intensity of postictal refractory period. In the present study the development of kindling in the area tempestas (specifically the dorsal endopiriform nucleus) was examined in developing rats (15-16 days of age). Results indicate that kindling can be easily elicited from the immature area tempestas. Rats kindled from area tempestas reached the early kindling stages significantly faster, had longer after discharges and a greater number of severe stage 6 seizures than rats kindled from areas above the area tempestas or in the piriform cortex proper. This study indicates that the area tempestas is particularly epileptogenic in the immature rat.