2009

In Memory of Christopher Donalty and Kyle Coggins

Submicroscropic Rearrangements in Cardiac Arrhythmia Genes: The Quest for Genetic Risk Factors for SUDEP

Alicia M. Goldman, MD, PhD
Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
 

Dr. Goldman’s research is focused on identifying mutations in ion channel genes found in both the heart and the brain that underlie both cardiac arrhythmias and seizures, and may ultimately lead to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). They have developed an ion channel gene specific microarray that will be used to analyze DNA samples from SUDEP cases and from individuals with intractable epilepsy. This research will be important in elucidating molecular risk factors underlying SUDEP. The long-term goal is to assist in defining an epilepsy population at risk for sudden death and allow initiation of life-saving preventative measures, as well as the design of gene specific therapies.

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