Compositions and methods for modulating neuronal excitability and motor behavior

Abstract

The invention is directed to compositions and methods for treating or reducing the likelihood of the development of epilepsy in an individual. The method comprises administering to the central nervous system of an individual in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of an agent capable of increasing the expression and/or activity of miR-128.

What is claimed: 
     
       1. A method for treating or reducing the likelihood of the development or occurrence of seizures in an individual with Dravet Syndrome, comprising administering to said individual a therapeutically effective amount of microRNA-128 (miR-128) having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the administering the therapeutically effective amount of miR-128 does not comprise administering miR-128-expressing cells. 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the agent therapeutically effective amount of miR-128 is administered intrathecally or intranasally. 
     
     
       3. A method for treating or reducing the likelihood of the development or occurrence of seizures in an individual who has suffered a brain injury caused by stroke comprising administering to said individual a therapeutically effective amount of miR-128 having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.