New genetic switch could improve gene therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy

Article excerpt

Epilepsy affects more than 50 million people worldwide, making it one of the most common neurological disorders. Although medication helps many patients achieve seizure control, approximately one-third continue to experience seizures despite treatment. Seizures often arise when the brain's excitation-inhibition (E/I) balance breaks down. In healthy conditions, specialized inhibitory neurons act as a natural braking system, releasing a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that helps prevent excessive electrical activity. When this inhibitory control is weakened, abnormal bursts of activity can spread through the brain and trigger seizures.