Investigating brain networks affecting breathing and heart function in epilepsy
State-dependent connectivity of impaired autonomic brain networks underlying cardiorespiratory dysfunction in epilepsy
This study is looking at how the brain's control of breathing and heart function is impacted in people with temporal lobe epilepsy, to help us understand why some patients face serious risks like sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP).
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11165619 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how brain networks that control breathing and heart function are affected in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. By using advanced imaging techniques and monitoring cardiorespiratory activity, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that lead to dysfunction during and between seizures. The goal is to identify how these disruptions contribute to serious risks like sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Patients will be monitored for their brain activity and physiological responses to better understand these connections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy, particularly those experiencing tonic-clonic seizures.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy who do not experience tonic-clonic seizures or those with other types of epilepsy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing life-threatening complications in epilepsy patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain network disruptions in epilepsy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pourmotabbed, Haatef — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Pourmotabbed, Haatef
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 below.