Exploring Epileptic Connectivity: A Comparative Study of Kainic Acid and Pentylenetetrazol Using rs-fMRI and Focused Ultrasound

Motivation: This study explores connectivity patterns in kainic acid (KA) and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) epilepsy models to enhance understanding of epilepsy mechanisms. Goal(s): To compare functional connectivity changes induced by KA and PTZ and assess the effects of focused ultrasound (FUS) on these brain networks. Approach: Using Sprague-Dawley rats, we established drug-induced epilepsy models, analyzed connectivity with resting-state fMRI, and applied FUS to specific brain regions. Results: FUS restored hypothalamus-hippocampus connectivity in PTZ models and insula-secondary somatosensory cortex connectivity in KA models, showing therapeutic potential. Impact: This study positions resting-state fMRI as a valuable biomarker for epilepsy. Combined with FUS, which modulates neural circuits, it enhances our understanding of epilepsy mechanisms and brain signaling pathways, offering insights for more targeted treatments.