Abstract

We have previously shown that estradiol (E-2) can initially increase and then decrease kindle seizure parameters in amygdala kindled male rats. This study focuses on the effects of estradiol benzoate (EB) on afterdischarge (AD) threshold and electrical kindling acquisition in intact male rats. After implantation of tripolar and monopolar electrodes in amygdala and dura surface respectively, effects of EB on AD threshold and electrical kindling acquisition were investigated by daily injection of EB (30 mug/kg) or sesame oil (EB solvent) in different groups of male rats. AD threshold was reduced significantly 0.25 h post EB treatment and reached to the lowest value after 24 h and remained almost constant at low values. Also, the number of trials for stage 5 (S-5) and cumulative seconds of AD to complete kindling decreased significantly, when compared to rats without EB treatment. These results support a marked influence of E-2 on seizure process and convulsive pattern in the brain of male rats. Base on the previous reports about female rats and our findings, these E-2 effects are probably not sex dependent. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.