Using light to control seizures in epilepsy patients
Noninvasive Optogenetic Interventions for Epilepsy
This study is exploring a new way to help people with epilepsy by using light to control brain activity, which could lead to better treatments for those who don't find relief with regular medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| 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-10897306 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating epilepsy by using noninvasive optogenetic techniques to control brain activity. It aims to develop methods that allow for the targeted delivery of light-sensitive proteins to specific brain cells, enabling precise control over seizure activity without the need for invasive procedures. By testing this approach in mouse models, the researchers hope to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method in suppressing seizures and improving cognitive function. If successful, this could lead to new treatment options for patients who do not respond to traditional medications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with epilepsy who have not found relief from conventional anticonvulsant medications.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy who respond well to existing treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.
How similar studies have performed: While optogenetics has shown promise in animal models, this specific noninvasive approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Ritchie — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Chen, Ritchie
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.