Biomarker study to predict Vagus Nerve Stimulation response in adults with refractory epilepsy
Official title: Identification of Biomarkers for Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Patients With Refractory Epilepsy
Run by Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc- Université Catholique de Louvain · NCT07909486 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether biomarkers and network measures can predict how adults with refractory epilepsy will respond to vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) after implantation.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 79 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc- Université Catholique de Louvain Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Brussels) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 28, 2022 |
| Main results expected | September 1, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 5, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07909486 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults over 18 with refractory epilepsy who are planned for VNS implantation and have an IQ above 55.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with dementia, neurodegenerative diseases, or concomitant laryngeal pathologies may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This longitudinal study follows patients before and after VNS implantation to identify biomarkers and connectivity patterns that may predict treatment response. It uses neurophysiologic and network measures to understand how VNS works and why some patients respond better than others. The goal is to improve patient selection and personalize expectations for VNS in refractory epilepsy. The study is conducted at Clinique Universitaires Saint-Luc in Brussels and includes adults with epilepsy who are scheduled for VNS implantation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help clinicians forecast VNS response and tailor treatment plans for individuals with refractory epilepsy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work on biomarkers and network analyses has shown promise in predicting neuromodulation responses, but this specific predictive approach for VNS in epilepsy is exploratory.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged \>18 years * Intelectual Quotient \>55 on Wechsler scale (normal or mild cognitive impairment) * Patients have refractory epilepsy and are planned for VNS implantation Exclusion Criteria: * Concomitant laryngeal pathology (e.g. recurrent nerve lesions, vocal fold paralysis). * Dementia/ Neurodegenerative diseases
Where it's running
-
Clinique Universitaires Saint-Luc
Brussels, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Riëm EL TAHRY, Pr.
- Email: riem.eltahry@uclouvain.be
- Phone: +322 764 28 55
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.