Exploring how gut bacteria and the ketogenic diet affect seizures
Dissecting Microbiota-Gut-Brain Interactions for the Anti-Seizure Effects of the Ketogenic Diet
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect the brain and how well the ketogenic diet works for kids with epilepsy, hoping to find ways to make this diet more helpful and easier to stick to.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10769720 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between gut microbiota and the brain, specifically how these relationships influence the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet in reducing seizures. By examining the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved, the study aims to uncover how specific gut microbes can impact brain function and behavior. The research will focus on children with epilepsy, aiming to provide insights that could improve dietary treatments and enhance compliance with the ketogenic diet.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are experiencing refractory epilepsy and may benefit from dietary interventions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have epilepsy or are not within the specified age range may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary therapies for children with epilepsy, enhancing seizure control and overall neurological health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsiao, Elaine — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Hsiao, Elaine
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.