The overriding goal of epilepsy research within the unit is to enable a better long-term outcome and to reduce the overall burden for children with epilepsy.
The unit – which encompasses UCL-Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Young Epilepsy and North London Epilepsy Network - is in a unique position of incorporating review of children with a range of severity from newly diagnosed to complex epilepsy.
Further collaboration across UCL allows continuation of work into adulthood, allowing study across the whole age range. The educational and behavioural expertise within Young Epilepsy allows interventional study beyond medical treatment.
Research Strategy
The overarching goal is to improve outcomes and reduce the burden of epilepsy in children. Key objectives include:
- Understanding Seizure Mechanisms: Through studies on genetics, neuroimaging, and pathology to identify causes and develop treatments.
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioural Impact: Investigating how epilepsy affects development and behaviour, using animal models and cohort studies.
- Early Interventions: Evaluating the benefits of early epilepsy surgery, new medical treatments, and educational interventions.
- Educational Barriers: Studying how epilepsy affects learning and implementing targeted interventions to improve academic achievement.
- Reducing Burden: Developing behavioural programs and rehabilitation strategies for children and families.
- Training Researchers: Promoting collaboration and academic growth through fellowships and joint projects.
Research Update
The report provides updates on several projects:
- Ketogenic Diet Trials: Studies are underway to evaluate the effectiveness of ketogenic diets in children under two years and its biochemical mechanisms.
- Epilepsy Genomics: Genetic data from children with epilepsy is being analysed to identify novel genetic causes.
- Infantile Epilepsy: Research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for infants under 12 months.
- Rasmussen Encephalitis: Data on prevalence and treatment outcomes of Rasmussen Encephalitis is being analysed to guide future trials.
- Sleep and Memory: Investigating how sleep impacts learning in children with focal epilepsy.
- MRI Imaging: Developing advanced imaging techniques to better detect focal cortical dysplasia.
Research Retreat
The 2014 retreat brought together 85 researchers to discuss ongoing projects, completed studies, and future directions. Presentations were grouped into themes like aetiology, cognition, interventions, and outcomes. The retreat fostered collaboration, provided feedback on research, and motivated young researchers. It highlighted the breadth of epilepsy research and served as a platform for sharing ideas and advancing knowledge.
This report underscores the commitment to improving the lives of children with epilepsy through innovative research, collaboration, and education.
