Investigating a new approach to treat epilepsy in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex
Official title: KCC2 and epilepsy in a mouse model of tuberous sclerosis complex
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11051253 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein in the brain affects seizure control in people with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), with the hope of finding new treatments to help manage seizures better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS133508-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051253 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis complex who experience intractable epilepsy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without tuberous sclerosis complex or those whose epilepsy is well-controlled by existing treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder that often leads to epilepsy and other neurological issues. The study aims to explore how the K+-Cl- cotransporter 2 (KCC2) affects chloride levels in neurons, which is crucial for controlling seizures. By understanding this mechanism, researchers hope to develop novel therapies that could improve seizure control in TSC patients. The approach involves using a mouse model to investigate the relationship between KCC2 function and epilepsy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce seizures and improve the quality of life for patients with tuberous sclerosis complex.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advances in epilepsy treatment for TSC, the specific approach of targeting KCC2 is novel and has not been extensively tested in previous studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wong, Michael — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Wong, Michael
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Sahel Epilepsy Study: finding patterns in epilepsy in rural Africa and its links to genes
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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.