Valproic acid and brain tumors

Besides its antiepileptic effects, valproic acid promotes differentiation of neurons into mature cell liens and inhibits proliferation of neuroectodermal lines. This has led to the use of valproic acid in pediatric patients who are s/p chemotherapy and radiation therapy for malignant glioma (Driever etal. al Klin Ped 1999; 21:323-8). Valproic acide also inhibits histone deacetylases, as do topamax and one of the metabolites of levitiracetam (PBA).