Understanding how brain malformations lead to seizures in children
Getting Excited about Cortical Malformations: Discovering the Mechanisms Leading to Seizure-prone Neurons in Malformations of Cortical Development
This study is looking at how certain brain growth issues in kids, like focal cortical dysplasia and tuberous sclerosis, can cause seizures, and it aims to find out how a specific pathway in the brain might help us discover better treatments for these children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11002298 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind seizures in children with malformations of cortical development (MCDs), such as focal cortical dysplasia and tuberous sclerosis complex. By studying the role of the mTOR signaling pathway, the researchers aim to understand how this pathway contributes to the growth of neurons that can lead to epilepsy. The study will utilize advanced techniques, including 3D reconstruction of neurons and calcium imaging, to analyze brain tissue from both mice and humans. The goal is to identify specific cellular changes that could inform new treatment strategies for affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who have been diagnosed with malformations of cortical development and experience intractable epilepsy.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy not caused by malformations of cortical development may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that significantly reduce or eliminate seizures in children with cortical malformations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mTOR signaling in epilepsy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alexander, Allyson Laura — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Alexander, Allyson Laura
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.