New Non-Invasive Method to Study Gene Activity in Living Human Brain
- Researchers in Ireland have developed a new method to study gene activity in the living human brain.
- Traditionally, studying gene activity in the brain has been difficult.
- By combining molecular data from these samples with electrical recordings, researchers can capture a "snapshot" of gene activity during seizures.
New Method to Study Gene Activity in the Living Brain
Researchers in Ireland have developed a new method to study gene activity in the living human brain. This method allows scientists to analyze gene activity without taking invasive tissue samples.
Traditionally, studying gene activity in the brain has been difficult. This new technique uses RNA and DNA collected from electrodes placed in the brains of patients with epilepsy. These electrodes help doctors monitor seizure activity and can now provide insights into gene activity as well.
By combining molecular data from these samples with electrical recordings, researchers can capture a “snapshot” of gene activity during seizures. This approach improves understanding of seizure networks in the brain, which can lead to better epilepsy surgery outcomes.
The study, published in JCI Insight, opens new possibilities for understanding neurological conditions, especially epilepsy. Prof. David Henshall, director of FutureNeuro, says this method will help identify active genes in the living brains of epilepsy patients. It could enhance traditional brain imaging methods and improve surgical decision-making.
Epilepsy affects about 40,000 people in Ireland. One in three of these patients cannot control their seizures with medication and may need surgery. Accurate mapping of seizure-active areas in the brain is key for successful surgery.
This research also has the potential to expand into studies of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and schizophrenia, where understanding brain processes is essential.
Prof. Henshall and Prof. Vijay Tiwari from the University of Southern Denmark led the study. They worked with a global team, including experts from various universities and hospitals. This collaboration highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research in advancing medical science.