NIH-funded research Fellowship grant

How specific brain cells influence epilepsy development

Official title: Regulation of Epileptogenesis by Hippocampal Somatostatin Interneurons in a Model of mTORopathies

Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10996585 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain brain cells that help control other nerve cells might be involved in epilepsy, especially in conditions linked to mTORopathies, and it hopes to find new ways to treat or prevent seizures for people with epilepsy.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project startJuly 15, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$42,574
NIH project number1F31NS136029-01A1
Project IDNIH-10996585 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with epilepsy, particularly those with conditions like tuberous sclerosis complex or focal cortical dysplasia.

Less likely to help

Patients with epilepsy that is not related to mTORopathies or those who do not have a diagnosis of childhood epilepsy may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of somatostatin-expressing interneurons in the development of epilepsy, particularly in conditions related to mTORopathies. Using a mouse model, the study examines how the loss of these interneurons affects the regulation of abnormal excitatory neurons that contribute to epilepsy. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for more effective treatments for epilepsy. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new preventative strategies or therapies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce the severity of epilepsy in patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of interneurons in epilepsy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
    Cincinnati, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Drake, Austin — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Drake, Austin

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.