Electrophysiological effects of udenafil in experimentally generated epilepsy model

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by unprovoked recurrent seizures. Phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors are molecules that enhance the prolonged action of nitric oxide (NO) by inhibiting the cGMP pathway. In addition to their role in penile erection, PDE-5 inhibitors also have effects on cognitive functions. In this study, we aimed to investigate the electrophysiological effects of udenafil, a PDE-5 inhibitor, in an experimentally induced epilepsy model. Four groups, each consisting of seven rats, were established.In the first group, 5 minutes of baseline activity was recorded, followed by the intracortical administration of 2.5 μl of penicillin to induce epileptiform activity. ECoG values were recorded for 180 minutes to determine the onset time, spike count, and spike amplitude of epileptiform activity. In the second group, 5 mg/kg intraperitoneal diazepam was administered 5 minutes before inducing epileptiform activity, in addition to the procedure in the first group. In the third group, 10 mg/kg oral udenafil was administered via gavage 90 minutes before inducing epileptiform activity. In the fourth group, diazepam was administered 90 minutes after udenafil, followed by the induction of epileptiform activity.Statistical analysis revealed that the onset time of the first epileptiform activity in group 2 was longer compared to other groups. The frequency and amplitude of spike-wave discharges in the diazepam and udenafil groups were found to be lower than in the penicillin group. In conclusion, we determined that udenafil did not significantly contribute to the early onset time of epileptiform activity. However, it exhibited positive effects on spike frequency and amplitude, suggesting a potential anticonvulsant effect in the later stages. Additionally, its indirect effects may complement the anticonvulsant properties of diazepam. KEYWORDS: Electrocorticography, Epilepsy, Experimental, Penicillin, Rat, Udenafil