Investigating how immune cells contribute to seizures after brain infections
The role of Infiltrating Macrophages in Seizure Generation Following CNS Infection
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the brain might affect seizures in people with temporal lobe epilepsy after a viral infection, and it hopes to find new ways to help those who struggle with their epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10917271 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of infiltrating macrophages in the development of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) following viral infections of the central nervous system. By using a mouse model, the study examines how these immune cells contribute to inflammation and seizure activity. Researchers will analyze the expression of a specific receptor, TREM1, in macrophages during seizure episodes and explore whether inhibiting this receptor can reduce seizures. The findings aim to uncover new therapeutic targets for patients suffering from refractory epilepsy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy, particularly those who have not responded to existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy caused by non-viral factors or those who are not experiencing acute seizures may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients with epilepsy that is resistant to current therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting inflammatory pathways can be beneficial in treating epilepsy, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Paula E Silva, Ana Beatriz — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: De Paula E Silva, Ana Beatriz
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.