Preventing sudden death in epilepsy through brain stimulation
Official title: Prevention of seizure-induced sudden death by periaqueductal gray stimulation
Funded at Southern Illinois University Sch of Med · NIH-10590738 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stimulating a part of the brain can help prevent sudden death from seizures in people with epilepsy, using mice that have a similar condition to learn more about how to keep patients safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Illinois University Sch of Med NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Springfield, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $184,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS126870-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10590738 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with epilepsy, particularly those at high risk for sudden unexplained death.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with epilepsy who do not experience generalized tonic-clonic seizures or those who have other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how stimulating a specific area of the brain, known as the periaqueductal gray, can help prevent sudden death caused by seizures in patients with epilepsy. The study uses a mouse model that closely mimics human epilepsy and its associated risks, particularly focusing on the mechanisms that lead to sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). By enhancing the action of serotonin, the research aims to block the fatal effects of seizures, providing insights that could lead to new preventative treatments for at-risk patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce the risk of sudden death in individuals with epilepsy.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar approaches to prevent seizure-related deaths, particularly through the serotonin theory of SUDEP.
Where this research is happening
-
Southern Illinois University Sch of Med
Springfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Faingold, Carl L — Southern Illinois University Sch of Med
- Study coordinator: Faingold, Carl L
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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.