Improving brain imaging for epilepsy surgery planning

Imaging Epilepsy Sources with Biophysically Constrained Deep Neural Networks

NIH-funded research Carnegie-Mellon University · NIH-11140998

This study is testing a new, easy-to-use imaging method that helps doctors find the exact spots in the brain causing seizures in people with epilepsy who don't respond to medication, aiming to improve their chances of successful surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCarnegie-Mellon University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11140998 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a new imaging technique using deep neural networks to better locate the sources of seizures in patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. By analyzing brain activity through EEG data, the approach seeks to provide accurate and objective information about the areas of the brain that need to be surgically addressed. The technology is designed to be user-friendly, eliminating the need for complex adjustments by operators, which could enhance its application in clinical settings. The ultimate goal is to improve surgical outcomes for patients who do not respond to medication.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with drug-resistant focal epilepsy who are considering surgical options.

Not a fit: Patients whose epilepsy is well-controlled with medication or those with generalized epilepsy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective surgical interventions for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, potentially curing their condition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for epilepsy, but this specific approach utilizing biophysically constrained deep neural networks is novel.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-09 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.