Intensified gamma EEG rhythms in epilepsy [ 2005 - 2007 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: E/Pr John Willoughby (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Kenneth Pope ,  Christopher Clark ,  Dr Emma Whitham ,  Dr Joseph Frasca

Brief description Epileptic convulsions are common, disrupt social life and may occasionally cause death. They can occur spontaneously in individuals whose brains appear to be physically normal. Apart from the fact that epilepsy may run in families, the processes leading to spontaneous convulsions are not known. We measure the brain's electrical rhythms (EEG) to find out which rhythms are disturbed in people with epilepsy and whether these rhythms disrupt the brain to cause attacks. In preliminary studies in patients with generalised epilepsy, we have identified abnormally strong rhythms that are almost certainly related to epilepsy causation and our studies are in part aimed at making our findings into a diagnostic test. Our findings may even enable individuals with epilepsy to test themselves for their immediate risk of seizure. Both of these outcomes should enable improved treatment for epilepsy. In addition to benefits in epilepsy, there are potential benefits in the diagnosis of cerebral degenerative disorders if changes in the rhythms also occur in these conditions.

Funding Amount $AUD 418,530.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant