Genetically Based Animal Models of Seizures

Seizure activity can be produced in experimental animals by a variety of methods. Other chapters in this volume detail these techniques, which include drug and chemical means, electroshock, and kindling models. Each of these methods of seizure induction has advantages and disadvantages, which are discussed in their respective chapters. In the present chapter, we will discuss several genetic models of epilepsy. These models have unique characteristics that relate to the onset and course of seizure activity.