Research

Epilepsy research

Epilepsy Society is at the forefront of medical research into epilepsy. Our goals are to:

• clarify the underlying causes of epilepsy
• advance the treatment and rehabilitation of those with epilepsy
• identify and investigate the healthcare needs of, and services for, people with epilepsy and their carers

We have extensive expertise in brain imaging, genetics, pharmacology, epidemiology and psychology and work in partnership with the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and the Institute of Neurology. We are recognised as a centre for excellence by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Brain imaging

Dramatic advances in brain imaging  offer real hope of seizure freedom for those with drug resistant epilepsy. Pioneering scanning techniques are also enabling neurologists to map critical pathways between functional areas of the brain and minimise the impact of surgery on memory, language and vision. Read more about our pioneering research.

Neuropsychology

Understanding the psychological aspects of epilepsy is crucial to our appreciation of how the condition affects individuals and how these consequences may be minimised. Many years of data collection is now helping us to determine the long-term effects of epilepsy, ageing, medication and surgery on brain function and quality of life. Read about our latest research.

Epilepsy nursing

Epilepsy specialist nurses have been evaluating the efficacy of buccal midazolam as a rescue medication for those with prolonged seizures. They have also been looking at SMS text messaging to remind people to take their medication. You will able to read more about these projects here shortly.

Clinical pharmacology

In recent years, the evaluation of recently-developed anti-epileptic drugs by pharmaceutical companies has been carried out abroad rather than in the UK. This has been for economic reasons. However, it is anticipated that in the interests of quality, trials will return to this country. You will shortly be able to read here how our Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Laboratory is staying at the forefront of drug evaluation.

Neurogenetics

Our new genetics research is looking into why some people are more likely to develop epilepsy than others, and whether a person's genetic make-up can help to identify the best medication for them. Read about our latest research and three new projects at Epilepsy Society. 

Clinical epileptology

What is the long-term outcome for those who undergo epilepsy surgery? Could light levels affect seizure control? Could a small wearable device detect when a person has stopped breathing during sleep? Find out about these innovative treatments for epilepsy.

Experimental epilepsy

The Experimental Epilepsy and Fundamental Neuroscience Group at UCL Institute of Neurology is working to understand the abnormalities on individual nerve cells and the chemicals that communicate between them. You will be able to read more about their work here shortly.

Global health

We are very aware of the need to have a global context.  This is facilitated by Professor Ley Sander’s links in many other countries particularly The Netherlands, Brazil, Georgia, Bulgaria, China and several African countries and the development of closer links with our Dutch counterparts at SEIN and the Free University in Amsterdam. You will be able to read more about our global work here shortly.