Role of non-receptor tyrosine kinases in epilepsy: significance and potential as therapeutic targets

Introduction: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterized by a persistent propensity for seizure generation. About one-third of patients do not achieve seizure control with the first-line treatment options, which include >20 antiseizure medications. It is therefore imperative that new medications with novel targets and mechanisms of action are developed. Areas covered: Clinical studies and preclinical research increasingly implicate Non-receptor tyrosine kinases (nRTKs) in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. To date, several nRTK members have been linked to processes relevant to the development of epilepsy. Therefore, in this review, we provide insight into the molecular mechanisms by which the various nRTK subfamilies can contribute to the pathogenesis of epilepsy. We further highlight the prospective use of specific nRTK inhibitors in the treatment of epilepsy deriving evidence from existing literature providing a rationale for their use as therapeutic targets. Expert opinion: Specific small-molecule inhibitors of NRTKs can be employed for the targeted therapy as already seen in other diseases by examining the precise molecular pathways regulated by them contributing to the development of epilepsy. However, the evidence supporting NRTKs as therapeutic targets are limiting in nature thus, necessitating more research to fully comprehend their function in the development and propagation of seizures.