Investigating how UBE3A affects seizures in a genetic syndrome
Official title: The role of UBE3A in gliopathic seizures
Funded at Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-11243907 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called UBE3A might cause seizures in people with Duplication 15q syndrome, using fruit flies to see how changes in certain brain cells could be affecting seizure activity, with the hope of finding better treatments for those who struggle with their epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2020 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $367,677 |
| NIH project number | 7R01NS115776-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11243907 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Duplication 15q syndrome who experience difficult-to-control seizures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with epilepsy not associated with Duplication 15q syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the UBE3A protein in causing seizures, particularly in individuals with Duplication 15q syndrome, a genetic condition where epilepsy is common. The study uses a model organism, the fruit fly, to explore how elevated levels of UBE3A in glial cells may contribute to seizure activity, challenging previous beliefs that neurons were primarily responsible. By examining the molecular changes in these glial cells, the research aims to uncover new insights into the mechanisms behind difficult-to-control seizures. This could lead to better-targeted treatments for patients who do not respond to existing therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with epilepsy, particularly those with Dup15q syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting UBE3A in glial cells is novel, previous research has shown that understanding genetic contributions to epilepsy can lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reiter, Lawrence T — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Reiter, Lawrence T
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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.