2020

CURE Epilepsy Research Continuity Fund

Mechanisms for Improving Cognitive Outcome in Pediatric Epilepsy with ACTH

Amanda Hernan, PhD
University of Vermont State and Agricultural College
 

Pediatric epilepsy is associated with a very high incidence of cognitive and psychiatric comorbidities that are extremely detrimental to quality of life and are often untreated by standard anti-seizure medications. Dr. Hernan’s team recently found that treatment with adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) can improve cognitive outcome in multiple rodent seizure models. The team is now studying the mechanism underlying the effectiveness of ACTH in preventing cognitive deficits associated with early life seizures. Despite lab closures and loss of rodent model animals and reagents, the researchers have been able to re-open the laboratory under a modified protocol.

Dr. Herman’s research is funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The CURE Epilepsy Research Continuity Fund will help the team replace lost reagents and time so that they can continue their important research.