Controlling brain cell activity to reduce seizures and improve memory in epilepsy
Closed-loop Control of Interneuron Spike Timing in Epilepsy
This study is looking at how adjusting certain brain cells can help reduce seizures and improve memory in people with epilepsy, using a special technique in rodent models to see if changing how these cells work can make a difference.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11232536 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how controlling the timing of specific brain cells, called interneurons, can affect seizures and cognitive function in epilepsy. Using a novel closed-loop optogenetic system, the researchers aim to manipulate the activity of these interneurons in rodent models of temporal lobe epilepsy. By adjusting their firing patterns, the study seeks to determine if this can decrease seizure frequency and enhance memory performance. The findings could provide insights into the relationship between brain synchronization and cognitive deficits associated with epilepsy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy who experience frequent seizures and cognitive impairments.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy who do not have cognitive deficits or those with other types of epilepsy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce seizures and improve cognitive function for patients with epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using optogenetic techniques to manipulate brain activity, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shuman, Tristan — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Shuman, Tristan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.