Understanding Brain Inflammation in Prolonged Childhood Seizures
Targeting Microglia in Febrile Status Epilepticus
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · NIH-11084538
This project explores how brain inflammation contributes to prolonged seizures in children, aiming to find new ways to help those at risk of developing epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11084538 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Febrile seizures are common in children, and some experience prolonged seizures called febrile status epilepticus (fSE), which can increase their risk of developing epilepsy later in life. While nerve cell problems are known to be involved, recent findings suggest that inflammation in the brain also plays a significant role. This project specifically looks at microglia, which are the brain's immune cells, to understand their exact contribution to this inflammation during fSE. By understanding how these specific cells contribute, we hope to identify new targets for treatments that could prevent long-term complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is focused on understanding prolonged seizures in children, particularly those between 6 and 60 months of age who experience febrile status epilepticus.
Not a fit: Patients experiencing other types of seizures or those without a history of febrile status epilepticus may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that reduce brain inflammation during prolonged childhood seizures, potentially preventing the development of epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: While broad anti-inflammatory drugs have shown some promise in reducing seizures, this project takes a novel approach by specifically identifying the roles of particular brain cells in inflammation during prolonged seizures.
Where this research is happening
CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA — CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: EYO, UKPONG BASSEY — UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
- Study coordinator: EYO, UKPONG BASSEY
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.