How progesterone receptors affect seizures

Progesterone receptor regulation of seizures

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-10594041

This study is looking at how progesterone in the brain affects seizures, especially for women of childbearing age, to see if changes in hormone levels can make seizures or migraines worse, and it aims to find out if adjusting certain brain receptors can help reduce these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10594041 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of progesterone receptors in the brain and their impact on seizure susceptibility, particularly in women of reproductive age. It explores how fluctuations in progesterone levels may exacerbate seizures and other related conditions, such as migraines. The study involves examining the effects of progesterone receptor activation on synaptic transmission in the hippocampus, a key area of the brain involved in seizure activity. By using animal models, researchers will assess how manipulating these receptors can influence seizure frequency and severity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women of reproductive age who experience seizures, especially those whose seizure patterns correlate with their menstrual cycle.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience seizures or those who are not of reproductive age may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for managing seizures, particularly in women affected by hormonal fluctuations.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of progesterone in seizure regulation is known, this specific investigation into progesterone receptors and their effects on seizure susceptibility is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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.
Conditions Mental disordersMental health disordersPsychiatric Disease
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.