Many epileptic syndromes develop in the terrain of prenatally compromised brain.
These syndromes are further debilitating for the child's progress and have unfavorable prognosis. Studies are performed to determine the effects that prenatal insults may have on further development of the nervous system. Currently, several models of prenatal brain damage are under development including those induced by prenatal administration of methylazoxymethanol, methotrexate, corticosteroids and possibly, neurotrophins. Brain function is tested postnatally using a variety of available in vivo and in vitro tests such as reflex behavior, motor skills, learning and memory, and seizure susceptibility. Brain morphology is assessed using light and fluorescent microscopy, metabolic imaging studies and binding essays.