Research Report 2014/15

Young Epilepsy coordinates and funds research into the causes, treatments and impact of all aspects of childhood epilepsy. We want to secure the best outcome for everyone affected by the childhood epilepsies and we know the best way to do this is through research.

Our research continues to focus on all aspects of childhood epilepsy; looking towards optimising outcomes. 

We are proud to share our Annual Report for 2014/15, highlighting our work in paediatric epilepsy research. ​ Our mission is to improve the lives of children and young people with epilepsy through ground-breaking research, education, and support. ​ Here’s an overview of our achievements and ongoing efforts:

Key Highlights

  • Research Focus: We initiated new projects, including a trial on the ketogenic diet for children under two and advanced neuroimaging techniques to better detect seizure activity. ​
  • Publications: Our team contributed to 57 peer-reviewed research papers and 11 expert reviews, showcasing our commitment to advancing knowledge in childhood epilepsy.
  • 10th Anniversary Celebration: We marked a decade of The Prince of Wales’s Chair of Childhood Epilepsy with an event at the Royal Society, celebrating major breakthroughs and reaffirming our commitment to finding solutions for this complex condition. ​

Research Updates

  • EPIPEG Project: Developing a clinical database to improve diagnosis and treatment for infants with epilepsy. ​
  • CHESS Project: Identified high rates of learning and behavioural difficulties in children with epilepsy, influencing policy changes. ​
  • Genetics Research: Discovered new genes linked to epilepsy, enhancing understanding of disease mechanisms.
  • Ketogenic Diet Studies: Expanded evidence for its effectiveness in drug-resistant epilepsy and initiated trials for infants. ​
  • Neuroimaging Advances: Improved MRI techniques to better detect brain abnormalities associated with epilepsy. ​

Collaborations

  • We work closely with UCL-Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and other leading institutions worldwide to integrate expertise and drive innovation. ​

Events

  • Research Retreat: Hosted our fifth annual retreat, bringing together 90 researchers to share findings, discuss future directions, and foster collaboration.

Our Team

  • Our multidisciplinary team includes world-class researchers, clinicians, and collaborators dedicated to improving outcomes for children with epilepsy. ​

Looking Ahead

  • We aim to continue exploring the impact of epilepsy on learning, develop tailored treatments, and support families and educators to help children reach their full potential. ​

At Young Epilepsy, we are committed to creating better futures for young lives affected by epilepsy.