The role of Na(+)‐K(+)‐ATPase in the epileptic brain

Na+‐K+‐ATPase, a P‐type ATP‐powered ion transporter on cell membrane, plays a vital role in cellular excitability. Cellular hyperexcitability, accompanied by hypersynchronous firing, is an important basis for seizures/epilepsy. An increasing number of studies point to a significant contribution of Na+‐K+‐ATPase to epilepsy, although discordant results exist. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the structure and physiological function of Na+‐K+‐ATPase in the central nervous system and critically evaluate the role of Na+‐K+‐ATPase in the epileptic brain. Importantly, we further provide perspectives on some possible research directions and discuss its potential as a therapeutic target for the treatment of epilepsy.