Investigating heart-related causes of sudden death in epilepsy patients
Cardiac Mechanisms of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy
This study is looking into how irregular heartbeats might play a role in Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) for people with certain genetic types of epilepsy, with the hope of finding ways to help prevent this serious risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10661021 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), a significant risk for individuals with epilepsy. The study will explore how cardiac arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats, may contribute to SUDEP, particularly in patients with specific genetic variations linked to epilepsy. By examining the genetic factors and their relationship to heart function, the research aims to uncover critical insights that could lead to better prevention strategies. Patients with certain genetic forms of epilepsy will be the primary focus, as their risk for SUDEP is notably higher.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic forms of epilepsy, particularly those with variants in the SCN1A, SCN1B, SCN8A, or CHD2 genes.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy who do not have the specific genetic variants being studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention of sudden death in epilepsy patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential links between cardiac issues and SUDEP, but this specific approach focusing on genetic factors is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Isom, Lori L. — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Isom, Lori L.
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.