Measuring synaptic function using EEG and MEG
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Measuring synaptic effects of antiepileptic drugs using electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG)
IRAS ID
138731
Contact name
Mkael Symmonds
Contact email
Research summary
This research aims to develop methods to non-invasively measure antiepileptic drug effects in humans using brain imaging techniques. If successful, this technique can be applied in diagnosing and treating disorders caused by abnormal firing of brain cells. This includes a wide range of conditions, but in particular epilepsy, migraine, movement disorders, and some psychiatric disorders. Importantly, this strategy could be used to quantify the potential benefit of medication for an individual suffering from seizures, providing a specific, efficient way to tailor therapies in epilepsy.
Quantifying synaptic effects of medications using non-invasive brain imaging techniques in humans has previously seemed impossible. Recently however, advances in the computer-based analysis of brain-wave data (which are recorded in humans by non-invasive techniques called electroencephalography ‘EEG’ and magnetoencephalography ‘MEG’), have shown promise in measuring neuron channel function at synapses in the brain.
We will apply these new methods in healthy individuals before and after (placebo-controlled) administration of drugs that affect synaptic function (specifically medications used to treat epilepsy). Participants will attend on several occasions to be administered medications with simultaneous brain wave recording whilst we use basic tests (such as flashing lights, playing sounds, and sensory stimulation) to elicit nerve cell responses.
This study will recruit only healthy participants from the Oxford area, testing at the University of Oxford research sites. Funding is from the Academy of Medical Sciences.
REC name
South Central - Oxford A Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/SC/0609
Date of REC Opinion
13 Jan 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion