Investigating how seizures affect arousal and recovery in epilepsy

Serotonergic circuit mechanisms in postictal recovery and arousal

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-10991780

This study is looking at how seizures in people with epilepsy can affect the body's ability to breathe properly after a seizure, which might help us understand and prevent sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP).

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10991780 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the mechanisms behind sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), focusing on how seizures impair the body's ability to respond to carbon dioxide levels during recovery. By using mouse models of temporal lobe epilepsy and Dravet Syndrome, the study aims to understand the relationship between seizures, arousal, and respiratory function. The researchers will assess how different sleep states influence the impairment of arousal in response to CO2 after seizures, which could provide insights into preventing SUDEP.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with refractory epilepsy, particularly those with temporal lobe epilepsy or Dravet Syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with well-controlled epilepsy or those not experiencing seizures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing sudden unexpected death in epilepsy patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential links between arousal mechanisms and sudden death in epilepsy, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.