Genetic and electrophysiologic analysis in children with drug-resistant epilepsy

Genetic and Electrophysiologic Study in Focal Drug-resistant Epilepsies

Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild · NCT02890641

This study is testing if certain genetic changes in the brain are linked to drug-resistant epilepsy in children to help us understand why these conditions happen.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment450 (estimated)
Ages3 Months to 25 Years
SexAll
SponsorFondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild (network)
Locations1 site (Paris)
Trial IDNCT02890641 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the presence of brain somatic mutations in children suffering from drug-resistant focal epilepsy, specifically focusing on conditions like focal cortical dysplasia and hemimegalencephaly. By analyzing paired blood and brain tissue samples, the study aims to identify mutations in the mTOR signaling pathway that may contribute to these cortical malformations. The research will also include functional validation of these mutations to better understand their role in epilepsy. The study is designed to enhance our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of these conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include children diagnosed with focal drug-resistant epilepsy and specific associated conditions such as focal cortical dysplasia or tuberous sclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have drug-resistant focal epilepsy or those with contraindications to anesthesia or MRI may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for children with refractory focal epilepsy.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in identifying genetic mutations related to epilepsy, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children with focal drug-resistant epilepsy including Focal Cortical Dysplasia, Hemimegalencephaly, Tuberous Sclerosis, Mild malformation of cortical development with oligodendroglial hyperplasia in epilepsy (MOGHE), Hypothalamic Hamartomas, Sturge-Weber syndrome, Rasmussen encephalitis, gliomas
* Their parents who have signed informed consent 1) for their child's participation (for parents) and 2) for themselves
* Social security coverage or foreign regime recognized in France

Exclusion Criteria:

* refusal to participate in the study
* contraindication to anaesthesia, to MRI or to surgery
* no medical insurance coverage

Where this trial is running

Paris

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Drug-resistant Focal Epilepsies in Pediatric Population, Focal Cortical Dysplasia, Cortical Malformation, Hemimegalencephaly, Tuberous sclerosis, Mild malformation of cortical development with oligodendroglial hyperplasia in epilepsy, Hypothalamic hamartomas, Refractory Focal Epilepsy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.