Mechanism and role of mTORC2 in seizure reduction

ABSTRACT Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that poses a major threat to public health and is responsible for an enormous economic and social burden. While some antiepileptic drugs have proven beneficial for the treatment of seizures, they mainly provide symptomatic relief from seizures and often cause serious adverse effects. Thus, the development of novel treatment strategies is of crucial importance. Here we focus on the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), which functions via two distinct complexes mTORC1 and mTORC2, and whose dysfunction has been associated with epilepsy. Based largely on studies utilizing chronic treatment with the drug rapamycin, it is currently believed that hyperactivation of mTORC1 leads to abnormal network rhythmicity associated with epilepsy. However, chronic rapamycin treatment also inhibits the activity of mTORC2. Thus, it remains unclear whether hyperactivation of mTORC1 or mTORC2 leads to the abnormal synchronized neuronal firing during epilepsy. The goal of this new application is to define the mechanism by which activation of mTOR signaling leads to epilepsy, with a special emphasis on mTORC2. In Aim 1, we will use molecular genetics to define the role of mTOR complexes in seizures. In Aim 2, using phosphoproteomics, genetic, pharmacology and in utero electroporation experiments, we will examine the mechanism by which inhibition of mTORC2 reduces seizures. Finally, in Aim 3, we will use a novel selective and efficient inhibitor of mTORC2 and assess its broader therapeutic potential for the suppression of seizures in different models of epilepsy.