Investigating how a specific brain channel functions in diabetic mice and its effect on seizures
Official title: Hippocampal astrocytic Kir4.1 channel function in Type 2 diabetic mice: impact on neuronal hyperexcitability
Funded at University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla · NIH-10676134 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific brain cell channel might affect the risk of seizures in mice with diabetes, which could help us understand why people with diabetes may be more likely to have seizures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aguadilla, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $115,229 |
| NIH project number | 5SC2NS124907-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10676134 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have diabetes and are at risk for epilepsy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have diabetes or epilepsy may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Kir4.1 potassium channel in astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in relation to epilepsy in diabetic mice. The study aims to uncover how diabetes may increase the risk of seizures by affecting neuronal communication and potassium balance in the brain. By examining brain slices from diabetic mice, researchers will assess the function of the Kir4.1 channel and its potential link to epileptiform activity. This could provide insights into the mechanisms behind increased seizure susceptibility in diabetic patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing seizures in diabetic patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have indicated a connection between diabetes and increased seizure risk, suggesting potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla
Aguadilla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mendez, Miguel P — University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla
- Study coordinator: Mendez, Miguel P
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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.