How breathing affects seizures in absence epilepsy
Respiration and Generalized Epilepsies
This study looks at how breathing patterns, especially fast breathing, can affect seizures in children with absence epilepsy, using a rodent model to help understand the connection better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11019811 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between breathing patterns and seizure activity in patients with absence epilepsy, particularly in children. By using a rodent model, the team examines how hyperventilation can trigger a significant increase in seizure activity, known as Spike-Wave Discharges (SWDs). The study combines various techniques, including monitoring breathing, brain activity, and blood chemistry, to understand the mechanisms behind these seizures. The goal is to uncover how changes in blood carbon dioxide levels during hyperventilation influence seizure occurrence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with absence epilepsy or those experiencing absence seizures.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of epilepsy or those who do not experience absence seizures may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing absence epilepsy by understanding how breathing affects seizure control.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding seizure triggers related to breathing patterns, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beenhakker, Mark — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Beenhakker, Mark
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.