How circadian rhythms and sleep affect seizure timing

Regulation of seizure timing by circadian rhythms and sleep

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11160270

This study is looking at how sleep patterns and body clocks affect when seizures happen in kids with genetic epilepsy, and it's being done by experts at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania to help find better treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11160270 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between circadian rhythms, sleep patterns, and the timing of seizures in individuals with genetic epilepsies. By utilizing advanced model systems, including cellular and animal models, the research aims to understand how these biological processes interact and influence seizure occurrences. The study is being conducted at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania, leveraging their expertise in neuroscience and sleep research. The principal investigator is focused on developing a deeper understanding of these interactions to inform future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly children, with genetic forms of epilepsy who experience seizures influenced by sleep and circadian rhythms.

Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy not linked to genetic factors or those whose seizures are not affected by sleep patterns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management strategies for patients with epilepsy, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of seizures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of circadian rhythms in various neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.