Growth-associated protein-43, synapsin 1, and carbonic anhydrase 7 as biomarkers for seizures

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the utility of serum biomarkers for differentiating seizures from non-seizure paroxysmal episodes. Materials and Methods: We conducted a case–control study with 85 patients with confirmed seizure activity and 89 patients presenting with non-seizure paroxysmal events (controls). Serum growth-associated protein-43 (GAP-43), synapsin 1, and carbonic anhydrase 7 (CA 7) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Mean GAP-43 levels were higher in the seizure group (5.23 ng/mL) compared to controls (2.3 ng/mL) (P < 0.001). Mean synapsin 1 and CA 7 levels were elevated in seizure cases (8.8 μg/mL and 11.49 μg/mL) versus controls (5.24 μg/mL and 6.73 μg/mL) (both P < 0.001). Conclusion: Serum biomarkers GAP-43, synapsin 1, and CA 7 hold promise as rapid diagnostic tests to differentiate seizures from other paroxysmal neurological events. If validated clinically, these markers could aid time-sensitive diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making for patients.