Understanding how brain cells control seizures in epilepsy
Control of Axon Initial Segment in Epilepsy
This study is looking at how certain brain cells work in people with temporal lobe epilepsy, a type of epilepsy that often doesn't get better with current treatments, to find new ways to help reduce seizures and improve thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11041070 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), which is a common form of epilepsy in adults that often does not respond to current medications. The study focuses on a specific part of brain cells called the axon initial segment (AIS) and how it is regulated by a unique type of cell known as axo-axonic cells (AACs). By using advanced techniques in mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how these cells control the generation of action potentials, which are crucial for normal brain function, and how this process is altered in epilepsy. The ultimate goal is to identify new treatment strategies that could reduce seizures and improve cognitive function in patients with TLE.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy and have not responded well to existing anti-epileptic medications.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy types other than temporal lobe epilepsy or those who are not adults may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, potentially reducing seizures and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting axo-axonic cells in TLE is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding and treating other forms of epilepsy.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soltesz, Ivan — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Soltesz, Ivan
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.