The genetic audiogenic seizure hamster from Salamanca: The GASH:Sal.

ABSTRACT

The hamster has been previously described as a paroxysmal dystonia model, but our strain is currently recognized as a model of audiogenic seizures (AGS). The original first epileptic hamster appeared spontaneously at the University of Valladolid, where it was known as the GPGVall line, and was transferred to the University of Salamanca where a new strain was developed, named GASHSal. By testing auditory brainstem responses, the GASHSal exhibits elevated auditory thresholds that indicate a hearing impairment. Moreover, amplified fragment length polymorphism analysis distinguished genetic differences between the susceptible GASHSal hamster strain and the control Syrian hamsters. The GASHSal constitutes an experimental model of reflex epilepsy of audiogenic origin derived from an autosomal recessive disorder. Thus, the GASHSal exhibits generalized tonic-clonic seizures, characterized by a short latency period after auditory stimulation, followed by wild running, a convulsive phase, and finally stupor, with origin in the brainstem. The seizure profile of the GASHSal is similar to those exhibited by other models of inherited AGS susceptibility, which decreases after six months of age, but the proneness across generations is maintained. The GASHSal can be considered a reliable model of audiogenic seizures, suitable to investigate current antiepileptic pharmaceutical treatments as well as novel therapeutic drugs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Genetic and Reflex Epilepsies, Audiogenic Seizures and Strains From Experimental Models to the Clinic".