How pathways in the hypothalamus affect seizures
Dissecting Hypothalamic Pathways for Seizure Control
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11285189
This project looks at specific brain pathways in the hypothalamus to find new ways to stop seizures for adults with temporal lobe epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11285189 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team uses mouse models to map two distinct pathways from a small hypothalamic area called the medial mammillary body and watches how seizure activity spreads through the brain. They use cell-type-specific genetic tools to turn on or off particular neurons and record synchronized, seizure-like events in the hippocampus and connected circuits. By identifying which pathway drives pathological synchrony, researchers aim to highlight points where interventions might block seizure spread. This is laboratory work done at Boston Children's Hospital and does not currently involve enrolling human participants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with temporal lobe epilepsy that is not well controlled by medications, especially those exploring new treatment options, would be the most relevant group.
Not a fit: People with generalized epilepsy types, children under 21, or those whose seizures are well controlled by current medications are unlikely to see direct benefit from this preclinical work in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new targets for therapies or brain stimulation that reduce seizures in people with temporal lobe epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: Some prior animal studies have shown that manipulating related brain circuits can reduce seizures, but applying these findings safely and effectively in people is still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FARRELL, JORDAN STEWART — BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: FARRELL, JORDAN STEWART
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.