Epilepsy is strongly correlated with the death of neurons in the brain. Protecting neurons seems to be a promising strategy to inhibit the development of severe epilepsy. In a mouse model of epilepsy, Dr. Borges will identify and evaluate genes involved in the brain’s own protective mechanisms for their ability to inhibit the development of epilepsy. This could potentially aid in identifying new biochemical pathways leading to new drug targets which could limit neuronal injury and the development of epilepsy.