Monocytes in the brain may worsen the effects of severe seizures
Brain-invading monocytes promote the deleterious consequences of status epilepticus
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called monocytes enter the brain during and after severe seizures, and how they might contribute to inflammation and memory problems; by finding ways to stop these cells from getting in, researchers hope to help people who experience these seizures and prevent future issues like epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001911 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain immune cells, specifically monocytes, invade the brain during and after episodes of status epilepticus (SE), a severe type of seizure. The study aims to understand the role these monocytes play in causing inflammation and cognitive deficits following seizures. By blocking the infiltration of these cells, researchers hope to reduce the negative consequences of SE, including the development of epilepsy. The approach involves examining the interactions between the immune system and brain cells to identify potential new treatments for patients affected by SE.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced status epilepticus and are at risk of developing epilepsy or cognitive impairments.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced status epilepticus or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that alleviate cognitive dysfunction and prevent the onset of epilepsy in patients who experience severe seizures.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting immune responses in the brain can lead to improvements in neurological outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be promising.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Varvel, Nicholas — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Varvel, Nicholas
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.