Investigating new treatments for genetic epilepsy using zebrafish models

Deep Behavioral Phenotyping of Novel Zebrafish Epilepsy Models

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10943858

This study is looking at genetic forms of epilepsy that cause tough seizures and behavior problems, using zebrafish to help find new treatments that might work better for people who don’t respond to current medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10943858 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding genetic epilepsies, which cause severe seizures and neurobehavioral issues in patients. By creating zebrafish models that mimic these conditions, researchers aim to explore the underlying mechanisms of epilepsy and identify potential new drug treatments. The study employs advanced imaging techniques and machine learning algorithms to analyze the behavior of these zebrafish mutants, facilitating large-scale drug screening. This innovative approach could lead to breakthroughs in managing epilepsy that is resistant to current medications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with genetic forms of epilepsy who have not responded well to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with non-genetic forms of epilepsy or those who have already found effective treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new and effective treatments for patients with genetic epilepsy.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using animal models for drug discovery in epilepsy, making this approach both innovative and grounded in prior success.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.