How astrocyte connections affect brain activity in epilepsy
Dynamic temporal regulation of astrocyte coupling to shape neuronal activity during acquired epilepsy development
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes might affect seizures in people who develop epilepsy after a brain injury, and it aims to find out how changing their connections can influence seizure activity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11039996 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in regulating neuronal activity during the development of acquired epilepsy, which can occur after brain injuries. The study aims to understand how changes in the connections between astrocytes influence seizure activity. Researchers will use advanced techniques to dynamically alter these connections in animal models, allowing them to observe the effects on brain activity and seizure occurrence. By exploring the timing and nature of astrocyte coupling, the research seeks to clarify conflicting findings about its role in epilepsy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have developed epilepsy following a neurological insult, such as traumatic brain injury.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy not related to acquired causes or those with other types of neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or prevent seizures in patients with acquired epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific dynamic modulation of astrocyte coupling is a novel approach, previous studies have shown varying effects of astrocyte coupling on neuronal activity, indicating a need for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Robel, Stefanie — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Robel, Stefanie
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.