Investigating the link between late-onset epilepsy and dementia risk
Late-onset Unexplained Epilepsy as a Risk Factor for Dementia
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11227341
This study is looking at how people over 55 who develop epilepsy for no clear reason might be at a higher risk for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, and it aims to find ways to help prevent these conditions in those individuals.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11227341 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on individuals who develop epilepsy after the age of 55 without a known cause, known as late-onset unexplained epilepsy (LoUE). The study aims to understand how LoUE increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By enrolling 600 participants, researchers will explore the underlying mechanisms and identify risk factors that contribute to dementia in these patients. The goal is to create personalized assessments and targeted therapies to help prevent dementia in those affected by LoUE.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 55 and older who have developed epilepsy without a clear cause.
Not a fit: Patients with early-onset epilepsy or those who have a known cause for their epilepsy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies for dementia in individuals with late-onset epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a significant association between late-onset epilepsy and increased dementia risk, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer's disease and related dementia, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders