Properties of brain barriers and the placental interface in GAERS: Entry of valproate and lamotrigine into the developing brain

This Thesis used a rat model of epilepsy to investigate properties of brain barriers and placental interface, and the mechanisms controlling transfer of valproate and lamotrigine. Result showed that fetal brain is particularly vulnerable to valproate. However, the placenta provides substantial protection against transfer of drugs from maternal-to-fetal circulation. Co-administration of lamotrigine can potentially reduce the risk of valproate teratogenicity. Presented findings demonstrated the need to understand mechanisms that influence drug entry into the brain and across the placenta to provide an evidence base for devising modulatory strategies to reduce collateral exposure of developing brain to maternally administered drugs.