The influence of D-penicillamine treatment upon seizure activity and trace metal status in the Senegalese baboon, Papio papio.

Reports suggesting participation of trace metals in processes of seizure initiation and propagation in humans and experimental animals prompted an investigation of the relationship between copper and zinc status and seizure activity in the Senegalese baboon, Papio papio. An evaluation of serum trace metal concentrations in three species of nonhuman primates revealed the presence of elevated zinc levels in P. papio moderately sensitive to photically induced seizures, compared with mildly seizure-prone and nonseizure-prone P. papio as well as nonseizure-prone primates. Papio cynocephalus and Macaca mulatta. By contrast, copper levels appeared similar in all three species. Chronic oral treatment with D-penicillamine, a chelating agent, resulted in marked protection against photic-induced seizures in the P. papio baboon, as well as changes in the trade metal status of serum and urine. Oral dosages of 30 to 40 mg/kg/day were sufficient to establish anticonvulsant effect over a period of 4 to 9 weeks in all animals tested without signs of toxicity or tolerance. Results suggest that metal chelation treatment may represent a new approach to the management of certain forms of human epilepsy.