Creating a rabbit model to study Dravet Syndrome and its heart-related risks.
Development and Validation of a Transgenic Rabbit Model of Dravet Syndrome
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11235978
This study is creating special rabbits to help us learn more about Dravet Syndrome, a serious type of epilepsy, so we can better understand how heart problems might relate to seizures and find better treatments for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11235978 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a transgenic rabbit model to better understand Dravet Syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy that can lead to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). By using rabbits, which have cardiac action potentials similar to humans, researchers aim to investigate the role of cardiac arrhythmias alongside seizures in SUDEP. The study will involve genetic modifications to create a model that accurately reflects the human condition, allowing for more effective testing of potential treatments and interventions. This approach aims to bridge the gap between existing mouse models and human patients, providing insights that could lead to improved patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome, particularly those experiencing severe seizures and at risk for SUDEP.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of Dravet Syndrome or those who do not experience seizures may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for SUDEP in patients with Dravet Syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been successful studies using mouse models for epilepsy, this approach using a rabbit model is relatively novel and aims to provide more relevant insights for human conditions.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ISOM, LORI L. — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: ISOM, LORI L.
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.