Investigating causes of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
Official title: Autoresuscitation and SUDEP
Funded at Creighton University · NIH-11009901 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some people with severe epilepsy have sudden unexpected deaths and aims to find ways to help their bodies recover better during seizures, so they can stay safe and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Creighton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $323,474 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126418-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009901 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with epilepsy who experience severe, refractory generalized convulsive seizures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with well-controlled epilepsy or those who do not experience generalized convulsive seizures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), particularly in individuals with severe, treatment-resistant seizures. The study aims to identify molecular targets that could improve the body's ability to recover from life-threatening situations related to seizures. By examining how certain brain networks respond to changes in oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, the researchers hope to uncover why some patients are unable to recover from seizures and ultimately prevent SUDEP. The approach involves both animal models and analysis of biological responses to seizures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the risk of SUDEP in patients with epilepsy.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have indicated potential pathways for reducing SUDEP risk, suggesting that exploring these mechanisms could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Creighton University
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simeone, Timothy a. — Creighton University
- Study coordinator: Simeone, Timothy a.
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.