New Research Reveals Potential Biomarkers for Epilepsy Diagnosis
Article published by News-Medical.net
New research led by UTHealth Houston scientists uncovered two genes associated with variants linked to epilepsy, which may prove to be promising diagnostic biomarkers. Led by Dennis Lal, PhD, the research team analyzed data for somatic variants, which are DNA changes that occur after conception and can only be identified in the brain tissue, in the genes of individuals undergoing epilepsy surgery. The research identified two novel genes, DYRK1A and EGFR, and their genetic mutations that were linked to epileptic brain lesions. “Discovering these genes not only helps us better understand the biology behind epilepsy but also reveals specific traits in tissues, making them valuable tools for diagnosing the condition,” said Lal.
The project also revealed that many genes identified with associated variants interact with biological pathways targeted by FDA-approved cancer drugs. While epileptic lesions share genetic similarities with tumors, they differ in key ways. Neurons – the affected cells in epilepsy – do not replicate like cancer cells, opening opportunities to repurpose existing cancer drugs for epilepsy treatment. “For those with epilepsy, their caregivers, and health care providers, our research represents a step closer to understanding epilepsy at its most fundamental level while potentially improving patients’ quality of life,” Lal said.