Memory in epilepsy patients with intracranial electrodes
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Memory in patients with epilepsy: an intracranial electroencephalography multiple-case study at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
IRAS ID
145358
Contact name
Beate Diehl
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Joint Research Office
Research summary
Our proposed study will investigate how memories are formed (“encoded”) and retained in the human brain. Through the use of neuroimaging techniques, a number of brain areas have been identified as important structures in the ability to form and retrieve memories. However, how brain cells (neurons) in these regions represent incoming information and support enduring memories is not well understood.
We will recruit epilepsy patients who are undergoing intracranial monitoring of brain activity at the Telemetry Unit in the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in order to identify the region of brain tissue responsible for causing epileptic seizures. This is a clinical procedure undertaken in approximately 30 patients per year prior to removal of the abnormal tissue in order to treat drug-resistant epilepsy. It involves implanting recording electrodes into the brains of patients, which remain in place until a sufficient number of seizures have been recorded to allow precise localization of the epileptogenic zone (typically 10-14 days).
During the time that the electrodes are implanted, the patient is fully aware and able to perform tests of attention and memory normally, except during seizure episodes. During the periods between seizures (interictal periods) the electrodes provide a direct read out of neuronal activity from a range of brain areas. This clinical population offers a unique opportunity to study how information is represented by the pattern of neuronal activity within the human brain.
The findings will be important for (a) understanding memory processes in the human brain; and (b) evaluating the risks of resective surgery in terms of cognitive functioning postoperatively.
REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/1154
Date of REC Opinion
22 Aug 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion