Creating a rabbit model to study epilepsy and related heart conditions
Development of a Genetic Rabbit Model of Kcnh2-Mediated Epilepsy, SUDEP, & Long QT Syndrome Type 2
This study is creating a special type of rabbit to help us understand how certain genetic factors can lead to epilepsy and heart problems, so we can find safer treatments for people at risk of seizures and sudden death related to these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11235977 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a genetic rabbit model to better understand the relationship between Kcnh2-mediated epilepsy, Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), and Long QT Syndrome Type 2 (LQT2). By using advanced gene-editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, researchers aim to create a model that accurately reflects the human condition, which is crucial for testing new anti-seizure medications. The goal is to address the significant risk of seizures and cardiac issues in patients with these genetic variants, ultimately leading to safer treatment options. This model will help bridge the gap between current animal studies and human clinical outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Kcnh2-mediated epilepsy or Long QT Syndrome Type 2, particularly those with a family history of these conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without genetic variants linked to Kcnh2-mediated epilepsy or those who do not have epilepsy or Long QT Syndrome may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer and more effective anti-seizure medications for patients with Kcnh2-mediated epilepsy and related cardiac conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on epilepsy and cardiac conditions, this specific approach using a rabbit model for Kcnh2-mediated conditions is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Syracuse, United States
- Upstate Medical University — Syracuse, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Auerbach, David Scott — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Auerbach, David Scott
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.