Investigating how infections affect seizure development in a mouse model of epilepsy
Official title: Lesion extent and seizure propagation pathways across acute infection and chronic epilepsy in an infection induced mouse model
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10861658 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how viral infections might lead to epilepsy by using mice to see how seizures happen during and after an infection, which could help find new ways to prevent epilepsy in people who have had similar infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $77,284 |
| NIH project number | 1F32NS136186-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10861658 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced viral encephalitis or similar infections that may increase their risk of developing epilepsy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a viral infection or do not have a history of seizures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between viral infections and the development of epilepsy using a mouse model. The study focuses on how seizures occur during the acute phase of infection and how they may lead to chronic epilepsy later on. By examining the brain's response to infection, including inflammation and cell death, researchers aim to understand the mechanisms that trigger both immediate and long-term seizure activity. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing epilepsy in individuals who have experienced viral encephalitis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing epilepsy in patients who have had viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of seizure development in animal models can lead to breakthroughs in epilepsy treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Petrucci, Alexandra — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Petrucci, Alexandra
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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.