Evidence of conscious-like activity in the dying brain
A new study published in PNAS reports surge of gamma activation in dying brains of humans and animals post-cardiac arrest, hinting at conscious-like activity.
Seizures
Articles tagged with Seizures
Study identifies genetic mutations that contribute to adult epilepsy
Researchers have identified 11 somatic mutations in the RAS/MAPK pathway that contribute to treatment-resistant adult epilepsy, suggesting the potential for repurposed anti-cancer agents as new treatments. This study provides insight into the genetic mechanisms underlying this form of epilepsy and opens up new avenues for targeted ther...
Model that uses machine learning methods and patient data at hospital arrival predicts strokes more accurately than current system
Researchers developed a machine learning model that predicts strokes more accurately than current systems, using data available at hospital arrival. The model achieved high precision and sensitivity, outperforming existing scales.
Connections in the brain involved in epileptic seizures identified
A study published in Brain found that disconnecting nerve pathways in the brain can lead to improved seizure freedom in patients with frontal lobe epilepsy. The research, involving 47 patients, revealed that cutting these connections resulted in 88% of patients being seizure-free after three years.
Status epilepticus: New inflammatory markers to improve patient care
A new study identifies several cytokine markers associated with poor prognosis in New-Onset Refractory Status Epilepticus (NORSE) patients. The researchers found that the concentration of these inflammatory proteins was higher in NORSE patients than controls, and their increase was correlated with short-term and long-term neurological ...
CHOP researchers develop first-of-its-kind prediction model for newborn seizures
Researchers from CHOP developed a prediction model that determines which newborn babies are likely to experience seizures in the NICU. The model, built using machine learning methods, can predict seizures with over 90% accuracy, particularly in newborns with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
Potential treatment target for drug-resistant epilepsy identified
A new study by Tufts University researchers has identified a small molecule, Compound 350, that may help treat people with epilepsy whose condition has become resistant to traditional anti-seizure drugs. The compound was found to reduce seizure activity in rodents with drug-resistant seizures and lower brain cell death.
Altered “neuronal avalanches” in brains of epilepsy patients tied to cognitive performance
Researchers have discovered that altered neuronal avalanches in epilepsy patients' brains are tied to cognitive performance. The study found that even during rest, the brain's network dynamics are altered, which can be used for a new diagnostic method.
Epilepsy could become easier to pinpoint with blood test
Researchers have discovered higher levels of immune proteins in the blood before and after epileptic seizures. The study suggests a potential biomarker for epilepsy, which could be identified using a simple blood test. This finding may help distinguish epilepsy from other conditions, such as psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
Study: Seizures can be predicted more than 30 minutes before onset in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy
A study published in NEJM Evidence found that seizures can be predicted at least 35 minutes before onset in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for developing more effective therapies for this common seizure disorder, which affects over 50 million people globally.
UTHealth Houston researchers awarded $15M in NIH BRAIN grants to study speech, epilepsy, and dyslexia
Researchers at UTHealth Houston received $15 million in NIH BRAIN grants to study brain processes related to speech, epilepsy, and reading. A new minimally invasive device will be developed to record brain activity during speech, while another project aims to disrupt seizures using neuromodulation.
Social deficits and seizures in autism type tied to overexcited brain circuits
Researchers identify duplicated gene as cause of social deficits and seizures in autism type, finding that reducing PRRT2 levels can restore normal brain activity and behavior. This discovery could lead to novel therapies for neurodevelopmental disorders with brain over-activation.
Chinese Medical Journal study highlights epilepsy trends in China between 1990 and 2019
A Chinese Medical Journal study analyzed the temporal and spatial distribution of epilepsy across China, finding significant increases in incidence and prevalence rates between 1990 and 2019. The study also showed a general decrease in age-standardized DALY rates with increasing socio-demographic index.
New insights into the drivers of glioma-related epilepsy
A team of researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that glioma-related epilepsy is driven by IGSF3-mediated potassium dysregulation. This disruption leads to seizure activity, which favors disease progression. The study used human patients and animal models to confirm the findings.
Study reveals how CBD counters epileptic seizures
A study reveals how CBD reduces seizures in pediatric epilepsy by blocking signals carried by lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI), a molecule that can amplify nerve signals and promote seizures. The research provides new insights into the mechanisms behind seizures and suggests potential targets for future drugs.
Chung-Ang University researchers review deep learning-based methods to detect time series data anomaly
A group of researchers from Chung-Ang University have summarized the applications based on anomaly detection in multivariate time series. They evaluated the current state-of-the-art anomaly detection techniques and addressed the challenges associated with them, providing a thorough overview of the applications for anomaly detection in ...
Donor hearts can be reprogrammed with medication for longer storage, improved transplant outcomes
A new study found that a medication previously used to treat seizures can reprogram donor hearts to boost the production of beneficial enzymes, increasing storage time and improving post-transplant function. This technology could lead to a paradigm shift in extending heart storage and reducing primary graft dysfunction.
Black and Hispanic people in U.S. less likely to get treatment for stroke complications
A new study found that Black and Hispanic stroke survivors in the US are less likely to receive treatment for common complications, despite improved overall stroke survival rates. Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2002 to 2022 and matched patients based on 41 factors to minimize biases.
A neuro-chip to manage brain disorders
NeuralTree is a closed-loop neuromodulation system-on-chip that can detect and classify biomarkers from real patient data and animal models of disease in-vivo, leading to high accuracy in symptom prediction. The system boasts 256 input channels, making it highly versatile and scalable.
Personalized brain modeling technique may lead to breakthroughs in clinical epilepsy trial
A personalized brain modeling approach is being tested in a large-scale clinical trial for drug-resistant epilepsy, aiming to improve surgery preparation and patient specificity. The technique uses virtual models of patients' brains to simulate abnormal activity during seizures, helping clinicians identify target areas more effectively.
Decoding brain arteriovenous malformations in the Asian population: a Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study
A nationwide registry of AVM patients from 52 hospitals in mainland China investigated the efficacy of different treatments on patient groups. The study found that categorizing treatment strategies based on disease severity is an ideal approach, and a multidisciplinary comprehensive assessment promotes individualized treatment protocols.
Research led by CMU Portugal Ph.D. Student introduces innovative AI solution to classify epileptic seizures
Researchers developed an innovative deep learning-based approach to classify epileptic seizures in near real-time, overcoming clinical limitations. The system uses action recognition with intelligent 3D cropping to distinguish between frontal and temporal lobes seizures or non-epileptic events.
New tools map seizures, improve epilepsy treatment
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed two new models that can identify where seizures originate in the brain, potentially leading to more effective surgeries and improved patient outcomes. The models use machine learning and calculus to analyze brain activity patterns, predicting seizure onset with 79% accuracy.
CityU neuroscientists discover a new drug candidate for treating epilepsy
A research team led by City University of Hong Kong neuroscientist Dr. Geoffrey Lau Chun-yue identified a new drug candidate, D4, that selectively blocks connexin hemichannels to suppress neuroinflammation and curbs TLE seizures in a mouse model. The findings suggest a promising new treatment strategy for epilepsy.
Children with severe form of epilepsy should receive flu vaccine due to high seizure risk after influenza infection
A new study finds that children with severe forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome, are at high risk of seizures triggered by the flu. The seasonal influenza vaccine is recommended for these children to protect them from complications and prolong their survival.
Researchers awarded £2 million to develop drugs to prevent epileptic seizures in children
A three-year research project led by Aston University aims to prevent epileptic seizures in children. The team will explore how epilepsy becomes established in the brain and test new drugs using living tissue samples.
Seizures happen like clockwork — but depend on the clock
A new study led by Rice University and UCSF researchers found that seizure cycles are linked to age and common triggers, such as illness and menstrual cycles. The study used data from over 1,000 patients aged 2 months to 80 years to develop a statistical model that captures the effect of these factors on seizure risk.
Gene therapy targeting overactive brain cells could treat neurological disorders
Researchers have developed a new gene therapy that selectively targets overactive brain cells, reducing excitability and suppressing seizures in mice. The treatment shows promise for treating neurological disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and pain disorders.
A new look at brain function and psychiatric disorders
The study provides detailed pictures of NMDA receptors, which mediate essential signals between neurons. The findings have significant implications for treating schizophrenia, depression, and other neuropsychiatric conditions.
Researchers assess barriers to advanced epilepsy care in New Jersey
Researchers found that structural racism and insurance barriers limit access to advanced epilepsy care for minority groups in New Jersey. Black patients with private insurance and Medicaid had the lowest EMU admission rates relative to emergency room visits.
Functional, nonepileptic seizures show structural abnormalities in brain scans, study shows
A study finds that functional seizures, a type of non-epileptic seizure, are associated with structural changes in the brain, including thinning in the superior temporal cortex and thickness in the left occipital cortex. These differences can be detected using MRI scans.
WVU researchers envision police as community partners, not adversaries
Researchers aim to shift policing focus from law enforcement to building strong communities through situational policing. The approach considers connections within the community and collaboratively builds resources.
Detecting seizures and interpreting EEGs, the direct algorithmic way
Researchers developed an algorithm to decode brain scans and identify epilepsy types based on electrical signal patterns. The Cumulative Sharp Count and areas under spike and sharp curves were used as parameters to detect epilepsy, with high accuracy rates in blind validation studies.
Monkeypox linked to encephalitis or confusion in some patients
A review of evidence found that 2-3% of monkeypox patients experienced severe complications such as seizure or encephalitis. Mood disorders like depression and anxiety were also common among infected individuals.
Why does fasting reduce seizures?
A new study published in Cell Reports has identified the molecular pathways responsible for reduced seizures during fasting. The researchers found that amino acid sensing plays a critical role in the beneficial effects of fasting on seizures, suggesting targeted dietary strategies may be effective for patients without DEPDC5 mutations.
Study first to link weed killer Roundup® to convulsions in animals
A recent study by Florida Atlantic University and Nova Southeastern University has linked the use of herbicide Roundup to convulsions in soil-dwelling roundworms, suggesting that glyphosate targets GABA-A receptors. The study found that even low concentrations of glyphosate had concerning effects on the nervous system.
Peptide delivered by nasal spray can reduce seizure activity, protect neurons in Alzheimer’s, epilepsy
Researchers developed a peptide that can be administered through nasal spray to reduce seizure activity and protect neurons in both Alzheimer's and epilepsy. The A1R-CT peptide inhibits neurabin, a protein that prevents the overactivation of neurons, allowing for increased action by adenosine receptors.
AI algorithm that detects brain abnormalities could help cure epilepsy
A new AI algorithm has been developed to detect subtle brain abnormalities causing epileptic seizures. The Multicentre Epilepsy Lesion Detection project used over 1,000 patient MRI scans to train the algorithm, which was able to detect focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) in 67% of cases. This could lead to more patients being considered for...
Pathway deep in the brain makes it resilient after injury
Astrocytes in the thalamus play a key role in susceptibility to seizures after brain injuries. Targeting a specific protein, GAT3, in these cells may prevent long-term damage.
Association of prenatal exposure to antiseizure medication with risk of autism, intellectual disability
A study of nearly 4.5 million children found a potential association between prenatal exposure to antiseizure medications and increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. The research suggests that further investigation is needed to confirm these findings.
A subtle genetic change gives new clues about epilepsy
Researchers discovered a previously unknown mutation in a child with epilepsy that affects the functioning of ion channels, which are crucial for brain function. The mutation has been found to decrease the function of normal proteins as well, highlighting the importance of studying genetic mutations.
One in 3 people who drowned in Canada had a chronic health condition
A recent study in CMAJ found that nearly half of Canadian drownings were caused by pre-existing medical conditions, with seizure disorders posing a significant risk. Young women aged 20-34 with seizure disorders were particularly vulnerable, facing a risk 23 times higher than the general population.
Whole-brain preclinical study illuminates how epileptic seizures originate
Researchers tracked brain cell activity in zebrafish during seizures, finding that seizures arise from an excess of excitatory over inhibitory neuron activity in confined regions. The findings suggest a nuanced role for both excitation and inhibition in seizure origins.
Scientists identify novel approach to preventing seizures
Researchers have identified a potential method of preventing damaging seizure activity by restoring the integrity of blood vessels in the brain. This breakthrough could hold promise for treating patients who are currently non-responsive to anti-seizure medications.
Newborn cells in the epileptic brain provide a potential target for treatment
Researchers discovered newborn neurons and immature astroglia in patients with epilepsy, which could lead to new anti-seizure medications. The study suggests that targeting immature astroglia may be an effective approach to controlling seizures without aggressive brain surgery.
A “perfect storm” of genetic mutations is behind rare sporadic brain malformations that cause stroke, seizures
A new study by researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine has identified a set of sporadic genetic mutations that make it more likely a person will develop cavernous angiomas, which can lead to stroke and seizures. Understanding these underlying causes is key to identifying patients at risk and finding effective treatments.
Limiting energy in neurons exacerbates epilepsy
A research team found that limiting energy in neurons increases hyperexcitability and severity of seizures in mice. The ketogenic diet restored mitochondrial function and reduced seizure intensity.
A model that mimics malformation associated with severe epilepsy paves way to novel therapies
Researchers created cortical organoids from patients' skin cells, mimicking focal cortical dysplasia and identifying mechanisms involved in its emergence. The model can be used to screen existing medications for patients with severe epilepsy.
Emotion, stress cues in social media posts might be early warnings in epilepsy deaths
Researchers discovered that epilepsy patients' social media activity increased before their sudden deaths from SUDEP. The study found significant alterations in the patients' digital behavior, including changes in the number of words written and drastic sentiment shifts in their posts.
When the brain sees a familiar face
When the eyes land on a face, certain cells in the amygdala react and trigger memory-making activity. Theta wave activity is also reset or restarted, preparing the hippocampus to receive new socially relevant information.
SynGAP research fund deploys #CouldItBeSYNGAP1 screening tool in partnership with probably genetic
The SynGAP Research Fund has developed a pre-screening tool to identify potential SYNGAP1 patients through a free online survey. The partnership with Probably Genetic aims to screen undiagnosed patients and provide them with genetic testing resources, ultimately advancing treatment development for SYNGAP1.
Noninvasive imaging could replace electrodes in epilepsy surgery planning
A noninvasive imaging method called virtual intracranial EEG (ViEEG) has been developed to replace electrodes in epilepsy surgery planning. The method uses magnetoencephalographic (MEG) imaging to create a dynamic map of the brain during seizures, enabling precise identification of brain networks involved in seizure generation.
Research in brief: Science one step closer to "turning off" seizures, sleep disturbances linked to intellectual disability
Researchers have identified a key brain protein to target for new customized drug therapies treating adverse symptoms of developmental disorder subtypes. The study found that mutations in ARHGEF9 lead to intellectual disability through impaired α2 subunit function, which is a central hub for many neurological symptoms.
Blood levels of common antiepileptic drugs drop during pregnancy, causing breakthrough seizures
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that blood levels of seven out of ten commonly used anticonvulsant medications dropped dramatically during pregnancy, leading to breakthrough seizures. The study aims to improve outcomes in women with epilepsy by better managing their medications over the course of pregnancy.
The link between alcohol consumption and epilepsy: An update from scientists from Pusan National University
A team of scientists from Pusan National University conducted an updated meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between alcohol consumption and unprovoked seizures and epilepsy. They found that overall, alcohol drinkers were at a significantly higher risk of developing epilepsy compared to non-drinkers.
New device developed for easier link between brain, computer, and body
Researchers have created a compact and affordable device for recording brain activity, offering research-grade signal quality and customizable configuration. The device has the potential to help people with epilepsy detect impending seizures and those with limited mobility regain control over their limbs.
Epilepsy research boosts case for new gene therapy for Dravet syndrome
Researchers developed a gene therapy called Targeted Augmentation of Nuclear Gene Output (TANGO), which boosts SCN1A protein production in brain cells. The treatment restored normal cell function and reduced seizures in lab mice with Dravet syndrome, offering hope for the first direct treatment of the fundamental cause.
Adult epilepsy treatment reduces seizures in children
A study published in Neurosurgery found that responsive neurostimulation system reduced disabling seizures in 84% of children and young adults with drug-resistant epilepsy. The youngest patient to undergo RNS implantation was a 3-year-old child.
Gene mutation leads to epileptic encephalopathy symptoms, neuron death in mice
Researchers found that a genetic mutation associated with severe congenital epilepsy also leads to neural degeneration, inflammation and behavioral symptoms in mice. The study suggests the mutation as a potential target for treatment.
Seizures and memory problems in epilepsy may have a common cause
Researchers found damage to a brain part that regulates hyperactivity contributes to both memory issues and seizures in the most common form of epilepsy. This discovery may lead to earlier diagnosis and new treatments for epilepsy and related disorders.