Viennese researchers discover a new approach to combating epilepsy!

Viennese researchers discover a new approach to combating epilepsy!

epilepsy is a widespread health problem that affects around 65 million people worldwide. A new research from the Medical University of Vienna could now offer a groundbreaking approach to better understand the causes of the disease and to develop targeted therapies. According to Meinverzirk , a committed team under the direction of Helmut Kubista and Matej Hotka has a molecular mechanism identified that plays a key role in the development of epileptic seizures.

The focus of this research lies on so -called "paroxysmal male depolarization spaces" (PDS). These special activity patterns in nerve cells initially lead to short -term protection against damage in the hippocampus, but in the long term they can escalate to seizure -like electrical discharges. This means that PDS could already give an indication of where new therapies could start. The realization that PDS also play an important role in disease development and can occur not only during a seizure.

Current status of epilepsy research

Currently epilepsy is mainly symptomatic to suppress seizures without influencing the underlying causes. But this knowledge is precisely an opportunity for future treatment approaches. The new study, which was published in Journal of Neuroscience Preventive therapies that may be particularly helpful for epilepsy forms caused by previous brain damage such as strokes or head injuries.

Research also includes innovative approaches to further improve the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. At institutions such as the Ludwig-maximilians-Universitätsklinikum , the analysis of seizures is being researched. Modern techniques such as EEG video monitoring and 3D procedures are used here to get a better understanding of the seizure patterns and to improve the quality of life of those affected.

conclusion and outlook

The discovery of the MedUni Vienna research team could be an important step in the fight against epilepsy. Instead of just treating the symptoms, the cause now comes into focus. Targeted therapy could thus move clearly within reach. It remains exciting what further progress can be made here in the coming years in order to enable the people affected to have a better quality of life.