A functional polymorphism in the prodynorphin gene promotor is associated with temporal lobe epilepsy

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Abstract
The prodynorphin gene (PDYN) encoding the anticonvulsant peptide dynorphin is a strong candidate for a seizure suppressor gene and thus a possible modulator of susceptibility to temporal lobe epilepsy. We performed a case control association study in 155 patients with nonlesional temporal lobe epilepsy and 202 controls and found that PDYN promotor low‐expression L‐alleles confer an increased risk for temporal lobe epilepsy in patients with a family history for seizures. Irrespective of the familial background, L‐homozygotes display a higher risk for secondarily generalized seizures and status epilepticus.
Funding Information
  • Jubiläumsfonds der Oesterreichischen Nationalbank (8227)
  • Fonds zur Förderung der wissenschaftlichen Forschung Österreichs (P-13214-MED)