Articles tagged with Epilepsy
New research from the University of Virginia School of Medicine has identified a sequence of events during seizures that can progress to death. The researchers found that breathing disruption, or apnea, occurs during seizures and that artificially stimulating breathing can prevent sudden death after a seizure.
Researchers have discovered that fast brainwave oscillations can pinpoint brain tissues responsible for epileptic seizures. The collaborative research leverages noninvasive EEG technology to automatically identify high-frequency oscillations and epileptiform spikes, which are key links related to epilepsy.
Researchers developed a method to localize epileptic tissue using EEG fast oscillations, differentiating pathological from nonepileptiform signals. High-frequency oscillations riding spikes provide a potential tool for presurgical diagnosis and postsurgical evaluation.
A case report warns of a potential link between medical cannabis and early puberty in children with severe childhood epilepsy. The 2-year-old boy's testosterone levels were abnormally high after using cannabis oil, raising concerns about the hormonal consequences of cannabis use.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health identified hundreds of potential new treatment targets for epilepsy by analyzing adult human brain tissue. Altered levels of brain proteins were found predominantly in the hippocampus and frontal cortex, suggesting that these regions may play a role in the development of the disorder.
Researchers mapped over 400 patients with SCN2A-related disorders, linking genetic abnormalities to clinical features. The study provided a framework for precision medicine approaches to help individuals with these conditions.
A new study found that children born to women taking epilepsy medications during pregnancy have no developmental delays at age three. The study involved 275 women with epilepsy and 77 without the disease, and found no differences in developmental scores between the two groups.
Researchers at USC have developed a powerful mathematical model that can predict seizures with high accuracy, providing epilepsy patients with an early warning of up to five minutes. This breakthrough could revolutionize epilepsy management and treatment, allowing patients to take necessary interventions to prevent seizure onset.
Children with epilepsy experience poorer sleep quality, disruptions, and parasomnias compared to healthy peers. Integrating sleep assessments into diagnosis and management could reduce seizures' impact on sleep and overall quality of life.
A rare genetic syndrome caused by mutations in the gene SATB1 has been identified, characterized by neurodevelopmental delay, intellectual disability, and muscle tone abnormalities. Variations in the gene lead to different levels of protein activity, resulting in varying symptoms and severity.
Researchers develop prototype to automate processing of brain data, allowing for accurate identification of epileptic focus; potentially saving up to 90% of time spent reviewing data. The tool has been validated by physicians and is expected to have a clinical impact.
Researchers use mathematical modeling to study synchronization changes during seizure onset, identifying key factors that influence the transition from desynchronization to high levels of synchronization. The study reveals a new phenomenon where amplitude coupling can accelerate or decelerate the domino effect.
A large-scale electronic health record study found that functional seizures are prevalent and often misdiagnosed as epileptic seizures. The study also discovered novel associations between functional seizures and cerebrovascular disease, including stroke, as well as psychiatric disorders such as PTSD and depression.
Researchers used a special backpack to monitor brain waves while participants walked around an empty room, finding hidden spots. The study found that brain waves flowed in a distinct pattern suggesting the brain mapped out physical space and boundaries.
Researchers at Université de Genève have developed a technique that can predict epileptic seizure periods between one and several days in advance. By recording neuronal activity over six months, they can detect individual cycles of epileptic activity and provide information about the probability of a future seizure.
Researchers have made breakthroughs in predicting epilepsy seizures using brain implant data, identifying weekly-to-monthly cycles of 'brain irritability' that predict higher likelihood of seizures. The study's findings could enable patients to plan their lives around high or low seizure risk, avoiding potentially dangerous situations.
A new study published in EPJ B reveals how complex dynamics in branching networks of neurons can be predicted to trigger episodes of epilepsy. The team's findings could lead to the development of better early warning systems for patients.
Epileptic spasms originate from pyramidal cells in the deep layers of the neocortex, generating rhythmic slow oscillations similar to NREM sleep states. This discovery opens up new avenues for developing desperately-needed interventional therapies.
A large multi-site study has found a link between brain connectivity and grey matter atrophy caused by certain types of epilepsy. The study used big data analysis to accurately predict damage to grey matter over time.
A highly unusual case of a right-handed patient performing unconscious 'mirror-writing' with her left hand while in the midst of having epileptic seizures was reported by doctors. The study, published at Euroanaesthesia, suggests that mirror writing may occur in patients with epilepsy affecting one limb.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that women with epilepsy who take valproic acid during pregnancy are at double the risk of having children with autism spectrum disorder and nearly double the risk of ADHD. The research used data from over 14,000 children born to mothers with epilepsy between 1996 and 2011.
A new study finds that focal epilepsy, affecting one in 26 American adults, is often overlooked due to subtle symptoms. Early diagnosis can lead to fewer car accidents, with the researchers estimating 1,816 preventable accidents annually worldwide.
Researchers have found that an amino acid called D-serine could prevent a type of epileptic seizure by blocking receptors in the brain. The study, published in Nature Communications, suggests that D-serine levels are depleted in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, leading to neuronal death and loss of function.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago discovered a protein called DUSP4 that may help prevent or treat epilepsy. Boosting levels of DUSP4 could potentially block the spread of epileptic centers in the brain and reduce seizure activity.
A Rutgers University study found that patients with generalized epilepsy are at a higher risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea compared to those with focal epilepsy. Treatment of OSA may improve seizure control and overall health for these patients.
A new analysis confirms that listening to Mozart's piano music can significantly reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures. The study, which evaluated 147 research articles, found that daily Mozart listening sessions resulted in a 31-66% reduction in epilepsy attacks.
Researchers used magnetic resonance elastography to detect changes in the hippocampus of patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, which is resistant to medication. The study found that MRE can improve early detection and characterization of the disease.
A new generation of long-term brain monitoring technologies records neural activity to provide a reliable alternative to subjective seizure diaries. These devices, such as the Wyss Center's Epios system, offer flexible configurations and could enable optimized and personalized treatment for each patient.
A new investigational therapy has shown to prevent the onset of Dravet syndrome symptoms in a mouse model, increasing gene expression up to 100 percent in neurons. The treatment uses an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) that is reversible and non-invasive.
A team of researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia used new computational methods to link characteristic presentations of childhood epilepsies with specific genetic variants. They analyzed clinical information and large-scale genomic data, finding associations between 11 genetic causes and specific symptoms.
Women with catamenial epilepsy experience nearly four times more frequent seizures during menstrual cycle and are more likely to have drug-resistant epilepsy. The study may lead to tailored treatments for this group.
A new study finds the COVID-19 pandemic is driving the adoption of electronic patient portals for epilepsy, enabling better care and resource management. The PiSCES portal provides secure access to medical records and care tools, empowering patients to track their condition.
Research identifies two functionally distinct sub-circuits in the sensory thalamus that process distinct classes of information. These circuits enable powerful new optogenetic and chemogenetic strategies to probe behavioral and perceptual functions, potentially shedding light on conscious awareness and epilepsy.
Researchers discovered that quercetin in pickled capers regulates proteins controlling bodily processes like heartbeat, thought, and muscular contraction. The study may lead to future therapies for epilepsy and abnormal heart rhythms.
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have developed a vitamin K-based compound that eliminates medication-resistant epileptic seizures in mice. The compound works by increasing brain cells' ability to produce energy and protects mitochondrial health, making it a promising new treatment option for those with epilepsy.
A study published in Neurology suggests that at least one million Chinese people with epilepsy could be candidates for a standard operation to leave them seizure-free. The study found 108 patients with lesions that could potentially be cured by surgery, with a high success rate of around 70-80%.
Researchers discovered a novel potassium channel activator, GiGA1, that selectively opens GIRK channels and reduces neuronal excitability. Systemic administration of GiGA1 exhibits anti-seizure properties in an acute epilepsy animal model.
Researchers have identified a critical step in how brain cells function in people with one of the most common forms of epilepsy, which could lead to new treatment approaches. Changes in gene activity and polyadenylation processes were found to be dramatically altered in people with epilepsy, changing protein production in the brain.
Researchers identified microRNAs associated with epilepsy and designed drug-like molecules to target them, finding three that stopped seizures in preclinical tests. The study aims to develop novel treatments for people whose seizures cannot be controlled by current medications.
A new study identified a significant common genetic component in BECTS, suggesting potential new treatments, and found maternal smoking in pregnancy quadrupled the risk of BECTS. The association with CHRNA5 gene opens up research possibilities into how epilepsy is caused.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding chandelier cells, which are key regulators of brain signaling. Abnormalities in these cells have been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, and studying them may provide insights into disease mechanisms.
A recent clinical research study found that listening to Mozart's Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K. 448 daily reduced seizure frequency in adult individuals with epilepsy. The study suggests this as a supplemental therapeutic option for those who do not respond well to anti-seizure medications.
A new animal study suggests that exposure to beneficial microorganisms during pregnancy may prevent an autism-like disorder in offspring. The study found that rats given a heat-killed preparation of Mycobacterium vaccae showed no signs of autism-like behavior, unlike those who were stressed and administered terbutaline.
A new study found that mortality rates for epilepsy-related deaths did not decrease between 2009 and 2015, with a six-fold increased risk of death among young adults aged 16-24. The majority of epilepsy-related deaths (78%) were classified as potentially avoidable.
Researchers developed a noninvasive ultrasound neuromodulation technique that inhibits epileptiform activities with an efficiency exceeding 65% in biopsy specimens from epileptic patients. The study demonstrates the potential clinical use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation for epilepsy treatment.
A new wearable device aims to prevent SUDEP, a deadly complication of refractory epilepsy. The device monitors key biomarkers and sends alerts to caregivers when abnormalities are detected.
Researchers found that a genetic mutation in the KCC2 protein causes a glitch in brain activity suppression, leading to panic responses and seizures. The R952H variant has been linked to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and schizophrenia.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a novel source imaging technology using high-density EEG to map underlying brain networks. This breakthrough can accurately estimate the size and scope of active areas within the brain, as well as interactions between functionally related regions.
A study by the University of Bonn has identified an autoantibody that triggers epilepsy in some patients. The autoantibody targets the protein Drebrin, disrupting nerve cell transmission and leading to inflammation and seizures.
A new neurodegenerative disorder has been discovered in children, characterized by developmental regression and severe epilepsy. The disorder is caused by a variation in the NRROS gene and appears to require two copies of the defective gene.
Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy using compounds derived from magnolia trees. The study found that extracts from the bark of Magnolia officinalis reduced seizure-like behavior in both zebrafish and mice, providing a promising lead for the development of new treatments.
Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes report that reducing levels of tau protein prevents core autism symptoms, seizures, and other abnormalities in mouse models. The findings suggest promise as a potential treatment for some forms of autism.
Researchers discovered a key molecular mechanism mediating GABAergic synaptic development and function, with somatostatin peptide found to regulate synaptic transmission between nerve cells.
A UC Riverside-led study found that brains treated with certain drugs within days of an injury have a reduced risk of developing epilepsy later in life. The development of epilepsy is linked to an immune system receptor, TLR4, which increases excitability in the hippocampus.
A preliminary study by the American Academy of Neurology found that children and teens with epilepsy who were treated with pharmaceutical cannabidiol (CBD) had better seizure control compared to those treated with artisanal CBD. Pharmaceutical CBD was found to have a 39% reduction in seizures, while artisanal CBD resulted in a 70% incr...
A new therapy called antisense oligonucleotide (ASOs) has shown dramatic effects in a mouse model of SCN8A-related encephalopathy, reducing mRNA expression by half and increasing lifespan by four-fold.
Researchers found that developing seizures after a severe ischemic stroke increases the risk of death and disability. The study identified several risk factors for post-stroke seizures, including age, severity of stroke, and previous heart conditions.
Researchers have developed sensitive and specific potassium nanosensors that can monitor dynamic changes of potassium ions in the brain during epileptic seizures. These nanosensors enable the accurate sensing of potassium levels in different parts of the brain, facilitating the diagnosis and therapy of epilepsy.
Researchers developed an algorithm using deep convolutional neural networks to analyze myoclonus severity from video footage. The method successfully quantified myoclonic jerks in EPM1 patients, correlating well with clinical evaluations and detecting small-amplitude and high-frequency jerks.
A new study reveals that people with neurological disorders have a 75% higher suicide rate than those without such disorders. The study found that severe neurological diseases like ALS and Huntington's disease are associated with particularly high risks of suicide.