Understanding the genetic causes of epilepsy in patients undergoing brain surgery
Genetic and transcriptomic profiling of the epileptic network in patients with surgically treated seizures
This study is looking at the genes and brain activity of people with hard-to-treat epilepsy who are having a special procedure to find out where their seizures come from, with the hope of discovering new ways to help them get better and have fewer seizures after surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10663374 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and transcriptomic characteristics of the brain in patients with medically-refractory epilepsy who are undergoing a minimally invasive procedure called stereo-EEG. By placing electrodes in the brain, researchers can identify the areas responsible for seizures and collect tissue samples for analysis. The goal is to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind intractable epilepsy, which could lead to more personalized treatment options for patients. This approach aims to improve the chances of seizure freedom after surgery by better understanding the underlying genetic factors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults with intractable epilepsy who are undergoing stereo-EEG and subsequent resective surgery.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy that is well-controlled by medication or those who do not require surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, tailored treatments for patients with difficult-to-treat epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic profiling to understand epilepsy, making this approach a continuation of successful methodologies.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Paredes, Mercedes — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Paredes, Mercedes
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.