Investigating late-onset unexplained epilepsy as a risk factor for dementia
Late-onset Unexplained Epilepsy as a Risk Factor for Dementia
This study is looking at how late-onset unexplained epilepsy in people over 55 might raise the chances of developing Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, so we can find out who is most at risk and create better treatments to help them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914980 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on late-onset unexplained epilepsy (LoUE), which occurs in individuals over 55 years old without a known cause. The study aims to understand how LoUE increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By analyzing clinical features, biomarkers, and cognitive outcomes, the researchers hope to identify which patients are at the highest risk for dementia and develop targeted therapies to prevent it. This approach emphasizes personalized medicine to improve patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 55 and older who have been diagnosed with late-onset unexplained epilepsy.
Not a fit: Patients with early-onset epilepsy or those with a known cause for their epilepsy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing dementia in patients with late-onset unexplained epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between epilepsy and increased dementia risk, but this specific approach to understanding late-onset unexplained epilepsy is novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lam, Alice D — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Lam, Alice D
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.