Developing a Light-Based Treatment for Epilepsy
Noninvasive Optogenetic Interventions for Epilepsy
This project is exploring a new way to use light to control seizures in people with epilepsy, especially those who don't respond to current medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137126 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with epilepsy struggle with seizures and side effects from medications, and for some, current drugs don't work at all. This project is developing a new approach called optogenetics, which uses light to precisely control brain cells and stop seizures. While optogenetics has shown promise, it currently involves brain implants and genetic modifications that aren't suitable for patients. Our goal is to make this treatment noninvasive by using special light-sensitive proteins delivered by viruses, allowing light to be applied from outside the body. We are testing this method in animal models of epilepsy to see if it can safely and effectively stop seizures long-term.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is ultimately aimed at helping patients with epilepsy, especially those whose seizures are not well-controlled by current medications.
Not a fit: Patients whose epilepsy is well-managed with existing medications may not directly benefit from this specific new treatment approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, noninvasive treatment option for people with epilepsy, particularly those who do not respond to existing medications.
How similar studies have performed: While the basic concept of using optogenetics to suppress seizures has shown promise in laboratory settings, this specific noninvasive approach is novel and still in early development.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Ritchie — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Chen, Ritchie
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.