Identifying brain networks to predict epilepsy development
Official title: New approach for identification pHFO networks to predict epileptogenesis
Funded at University of North Texas · NIH-10872247 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific brain connections might lead to epilepsy before seizures start, using animal models to find out more about these early changes, with the hope of creating new treatments that could help people with epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denton, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $180,025 |
| NIH project number | 5R16NS131108-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872247 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with epilepsy, especially those who have not responded to standard treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with epilepsy who have well-controlled seizures and do not experience refractory epilepsy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain brain networks contribute to the development of epilepsy, particularly focusing on the early stages before seizures occur. By studying pathological high-frequency oscillations (pHFOs) in animal models, the research aims to understand the characteristics of interconnected neuron clusters that may lead to epilepsy. The goal is to develop new treatment options that could prevent or cure epilepsy by targeting these early network changes. Patients may benefit from insights gained about their condition and potential new therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new prevention strategies and treatments for epilepsy, particularly for patients who currently do not respond to existing therapies.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of studying early-stage epileptogenesis is relatively novel, there have been successful studies focusing on brain network abnormalities in epilepsy that support the potential of this research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas
Denton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Lin — University of North Texas
- Study coordinator: Li, Lin
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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.