Genetics Based Research on Treatment-Resistant Epilepsy

A sizable fraction of patients suffering from epilepsy, and most patients with Dravet Syndrome, cannot control their seizures with drugs. Research in animals shows that shutting off a gene called SCN8A can raise the threshold of excitability for neurons, thus lowering susceptibility to seizures.

Scientists plan to test a gene-therapy-like technique for shutting off SCN8A in mice, with an eye towards developing similar treatments for humans. Dr. Andrew Escayg of Emory University explains the science behind a new study funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Related Links

Emory Department of Human Genetics
http://genetics.emory.edu

Bio Sketch: Andrew Escayg, PhD
http://genetics.emory.edu/faculty/faculty.php?facultyid=148

Sodium Channel Gene Mutation Identified in Case of Familial Epilepsy
http://whsc.emory.edu/press_releases2.cfm?announcement_id_seq=599

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• sodium channels
• gene mutations
• genetic mutations
• epilepsy
• dravet syndrome
• gene therapy
• scn8a
• mouse model
• animal research
• epilepsy research
• genetics of epilepsy
• treating epilepsy
• emory university
• human genetics
• andrew escayg

[happinesson]

Hope they continue their research about SCN8A. Many people suffer from this uncontrollable condition.

[YochananMat]

Please can someone tell me where balanced dialogue/discussion is being had regarding the combination of gene mutation and environmental factors(ie vaccines) in outcomes regarding Dravet Syndrome, as the vast majority don't seem able. Thanks.

[Tam175]

what will hapen if an epleptic had a massage?

[Tam175]

what will hapen if epleptic had a massage?

[MrSymposier]

Genetic treatments for different diseases/conditions will be more common as the technology and research on genetics advance. Genetic treatments will allow Physicians to treat patients from the root of their diseases, changing the information in their genes stopping this diseases. Physicians and Medical Experts interested in more videos on Genetic treatments, visit Symposier site, also share your videos with our medical Community.