Articles tagged with Epilepsy
A comprehensive register-based study from Aarhus University, Denmark, found a significant association between repeated febrile convulsions and the risk of developing epilepsy and psychiatric disorders. Children who suffered three or more febrile convulsions had a 15% risk of developing epilepsy within thirty years.
A new study developed genetic-based epilepsy risk scores that can accurately distinguish between healthy patients and those with epilepsy, as well as between patients with generalized and focal epilepsies. These scores have the potential to identify high-risk patients earlier and guide precision treatment.
A study published in Annals of Neurology found that the spread of seizures through the brain can be suppressed by a
Researchers found that CBD substantially lessened seizure severity in mice and restored normal brain rhythms in Angelman syndrome models. The study suggests CBD could benefit kids and adults with this serious condition, characterized by intellectual disability and epilepsy.
A collaborative project between the University of Washington and UCB will explore ways to enhance community pharmacist engagement in epilepsy care. The effort seeks to address fragmented healthcare services and medication adherence issues affecting the 3.4 million people living with epilepsy.
A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that people with drug-resistant epilepsy have better prospects of being seizure-free if they undergo surgical treatment at an earlier stage. The study found a 15-21% higher probability of attack freedom for those who underwent surgery early compared to later stages.
Researchers have developed a new machine learning algorithm that can detect the seizure onset zone in just 10-20 minutes, eliminating the need for prolonged monitoring and reducing risks. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment approach for epilepsy patients, particularly those with drug-resistant forms of the disease.
A review of 10-year experience at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that ketogenic diet was safe and effective in treating drug-resistant epilepsy in infants under 3 years old. Nearly half of children with genetic causes of epilepsy experienced significant seizure reduction after three months on the diet.
Researchers developed an advanced method to detect low-level somatic mutations in intractable epilepsy with 100% accuracy, surpassing conventional sequencing analysis which stands at 30%. The study used deep sequencing replicates of major focal epilepsy genes and identified mutations in approximately 5% of patients.
FutureNeuro researchers integrated genomics data into the Irish National Epilepsy Electronic Patient Record system, enabling personalized treatment plans for individuals with unknown cause epilepsy. The new system facilitates multidisciplinary meetings and review of genomic test results to determine genetic causes, leading to better di...
A massive study involving 17,606 participants has identified rare genetic variations associated with a higher risk of epilepsy. The research found that both severe and less severe forms of the disease share similar genetic features, paving the way for more targeted treatments.
A novel antibody-enzyme fusion has virtually eliminated Lafora bodies in LD mouse brains, restoring normal brain metabolism. The therapy has potential treatment applications beyond Lafora Disease, including other glycogen storage diseases.
Researchers at UTSA have successfully removed new neurons that developed after a brain injury to reduce seizures in mice. The study found a 65% reduction in seizures, but the effect was not permanent and may be due to underlying factors such as chronic inflammation or reactive astrocytes.
A new study found that social isolation in mice and rats causes higher stress and anxiety levels, leading to more severe seizures in epileptic rodents. This highlights the importance of housing conditions in experimental design and data analysis.
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have discovered a novel therapy that reduces brain damage after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice, preventing seizures and reducing inflammation. The study aims to develop a simple and effective treatment for TBI patients.
Researchers found that removing new neurons born after a brain injury reduced seizures in mice, with a 65% decrease observed. This approach may potentially prevent post-injury epilepsy if implemented within a specific time frame.
A study by the University of Saskatchewan found that medicinal cannabis oil containing CBD and THC can reduce or end seizures in children with severe, drug-resistant epilepsy. The research team tested a dosage regimen that showed significant improvements in quality of life for the children, with some experiencing complete seizure freedom.
A new guide from the American College of Physicians provides clinicians with a detailed framework for caring for transgender patients, highlighting specific medical issues and ways to improve practice. The guide also addresses broader concerns about healthcare access and disparities in marginalized populations.
The UAB clinic has achieved rapid accessibility and improved seizure control for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) therapies have shown promise, with 12-11 out of 27-16 patients experiencing a 60% reduction in seizures.
A new study found that stimulating the brain's dorsal anterior insula triggers an ecstatic aura in epileptic patients. This region is proposed to be a key area for elicit symptoms of altered consciousness and ecstasy-like experiences. The findings provide additional support for its role in human consciousness.
A new study found that even people with well-controlled epilepsy are at risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Researchers analyzed cases referred to the North American SUDEP Registry and found that sleep deprivation, skipping medication, and lack of seizure activity were common factors contributing to SUDEP.
Research suggests that strobe lighting at electronic dance music festivals triples the risk of epileptic fits in susceptible individuals. Organisers are advised to issue warnings and provide preventive measures for those with photosensitive epilepsy.
Researchers at FutureNeuro have discovered molecules in the blood that are higher in people with epilepsy before a seizure happens. These molecules are fragments of transfer RNAs (tRNAs), which could serve as an early warning system for predicting seizures.
A new study found an increased risk of behavioral problems in children of mothers with epilepsy who took common antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy. Valproate-exposed children were most affected, but parents also reported behavioral problems for other medications.
A study found that children's brains can compensate for missing regions of the visual cortex after epilepsy surgery, allowing them to maintain full visual perception. This brain plasticity suggests that early surgical treatment for children with epilepsy may enable this type of remapping.
A study led by York University researchers found that children's brains can compensate for lost regions of the visual cortex after surgery, retaining normal visual perception. The brain's plasticity allows it to re-wire itself in a way not seen in adults, enabling children to read and recognize faces with minimal impairment.
Researchers analyzed data from 234 patients undergoing minimally invasive laser surgery for epilepsy, finding that targeting specific brain regions such as the amygdala and hippocampal head improved seizure-free outcomes with minimal side effects. The study's results provide insights into the most effective approach for this type of su...
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University aim to create a noninvasive neural interface that can sense and stimulate the brain's dynamic activity with unprecedented resolution. The team will harness novel concepts in physics, biology, and engineering using electricity, ultrasound, and light to develop a wearable device.
A team of researchers discovered a new gene linked to severe childhood epilepsy by analyzing phenotypes and genomics data of patients with similar clinical presentations. The study used a novel computational method to identify the AP2M1 gene variant, which regulates excitability and inhibition in brain cells.
Researchers at Osaka University developed an automatic diagnosis system using deep learning and MEG, achieving high accuracy in classifying patients with neurological diseases. The system outperformed conventional methods using waveforms, offering a promising approach for clinical practice.
Researchers found that successful epilepsy surgery can restore brain networks, leading to improved quality of life for patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. The study showed significant improvements in brain network activity after surgery compared to healthy subjects.
A Danish study reveals that patients with both schizophrenia and epilepsy are at risk of dying before the age of fifty. The study found a significantly higher mortality rate among this group, with 27.2% of those with both conditions passing away between ages 25-50.
Researchers have identified a small organic compound called gluconate that acts as an anticonvulsant, inhibiting seizures by targeting chloride ion channels. The study found that gluconate suppresses seizure activity more effectively in neonatal animals than adults.
A new tool developed by Queen Mary University researchers can accurately predict the risk of seizures during pregnancy and up to six weeks after delivery. The EMPiRE tool uses routinely collected data to inform care and close monitoring, potentially reducing maternal and fetal mortality.
Top doctor David Nutt and mother of Alfie Dingley Hannah Deacon argue that many children are still not getting the treatment they need. Despite a law change in 2018, access to medical cannabis remains slow due to lack of training, fear of prescribing off licence, and difficulties obtaining supplies.
A phase 3 study found that taking pharmaceutical cannabidiol cut seizures nearly in half for children with Dravet syndrome. The treatment showed significant efficacy even among those who had tried multiple other medications without success.
Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute found that excess calcium in glia cells causes them to hyper-activate a molecular pathway leading to seizures. They identified calcineurin and sandman proteins as key players in the process, suggesting a promising avenue for future drug development.
Adult mouse models of SYNGAP1 disorder show improvement in measures of seizure and memory after gene repair, suggesting potential for treatment at any stage of life. The study offers a path to measure the effectiveness of potential medications or therapies.
Researchers identified two new neurodevelopmental diseases caused by ACTL6B gene mutations, leading to epilepsy, seizures, and cognitive delays. The study used induced pluripotent stem cells and CRISPR gene editing technology to understand the role of ACTL6B in brain development.
Scientists at RIKEN Center for Brain Science found that impaired communication between the cortex and striatum can trigger absence epilepsy. Absence seizures, characterized by brief periods of lost consciousness, are associated with spike-wave discharges recorded on electrocorticograms.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have found that responsive neurostimulation can remodel the brain to be less susceptible to seizures. By analyzing individual brain activity recordings over time, the study shows that stimulation changes brain networks, making it harder for seizures to spread.
A new study reveals that hippocampal neurons provide pointers to complete memories by firing strongly during recall. This process, called reinstatement, helps the brain reconstruct associated objects from memory, similar to initial learning. The discovery has implications for understanding memory deficits and potential treatments.
Studies from the Epilepsy Connectome Project reveal a difference in memory-related connections between healthy individuals and those with epilepsy. The researchers identified an excitatory connection association with inhibition of formation of the left hippocampal region in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy.
A common cause for both Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) may be an inability to wake up due to a faulty CO2 blood level regulation. A potential explanation is a malfunctioning serotonin receptor in the midbrain, which could drive future treatments.
A team of scientists has found evidence that the human hippocampus is necessary for future planning and decision-making. The study, published in Neuron, revealed that individuals with epilepsy displayed inferior spatial memory and a tendency to plan less, highlighting the cognitive map's role in planning into the future.
A new study published in JAMA Neurology reveals that a minimally invasive procedure can help identify patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who are suitable for brain surgery. The procedure produces more favorable outcomes among patients, including reduced complications and increased likelihood of seizure freedom.
The partnership will provide insights into disease progression and responses to treatment, helping clinicians identify risk factors and inform personalized treatment planning. The project's goal is to promote proactive and tailored care to prevent disease deterioration and improve patient outcomes.
A UCI researcher has been awarded $2.7 million to investigate the role of ion channel transporters in neurological disorders such as epilepsy. The research aims to develop new therapeutic agents targeting these complexes to treat human disease.
Scientists at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a method to predict epileptic seizures at least four minutes in advance using EEG monitoring. The study shows that delivering an edible acid called acetate can prevent seizures if detected early, providing new potential therapy options.
A recent study has clarified the mechanism behind a rare brain disorder called MICPCH syndrome, which affects few individuals worldwide. The research highlights the importance of the protein CASK in maintaining balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have created a novel brain slice model that captures features observed in patients with mitochondrial epilepsy. The model reveals the critical role of astrocytes in driving seizure generation and demonstrates the involvement of the GABA-glutamate-glutamine cycle.
Researchers at Emory University discovered that electrical stimulation of the cingulum bundle can induce laughter and a sense of calm in patients undergoing brain surgery. The technique has potential applications in treating depression, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain via deep brain stimulation.
Researchers found a correlation between loss of function in patches of astrocytes and development of epilepsy. Altered astrocytes may be the root of epilepsy development after mild traumatic brain injuries.
Researchers have identified a cellular response to repeated concussions that may contribute to seizures in mice. A unique population of astrocytes responded to these injuries, leading to spontaneous recurrent seizures in some mice within one month. This study establishes a new animal model for post-traumatic epilepsy research.
A protein-secreting device implanted into the hippocampus of epileptic rats reduced seizures by 93% in three months, improving anxiety-like symptoms and cognitive performance. The effects persisted even after device removal, indicating a possible modification of disease progression.
Researchers identified a key factor leading to epileptic seizures by analyzing changes in the temporal lobe cortex of a rat brain. The study found that excessive excitation of neurons, triggered by calcium-permeable AMPA receptors, increases the risk of convulsive discharges.
A recent study characterizes silent seizures in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome and identifies the thalamus as a potential target to stop them. The researchers developed two new strategies to prevent non-convulsive seizures, which can disrupt consciousness and occur hundreds of times daily in affected children.
A large-scale genetic study has identified 11 new genes associated with epilepsy, which may inform the development of new treatments. The research, led by RCSI researchers, compared DNA samples from over 15,000 people with and without epilepsy, tripling the number of known genetic associations.
A recent analysis of published studies suggests that cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, can reduce seizures in children with severe forms of epilepsy. The median frequency of monthly seizures decreased with cannabidiol treatment, with many participants experiencing a 50% or greater reduction.
Researchers have developed a tiny device that electrically stimulates the brain, paving the way for minimally invasive treatments for conditions such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. The Stentrode can deliver targeted stimulation without open-brain surgery, opening up new possibilities for treating neurological disorders.