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Researchers at the Stanford University
School of Medicine believe they may be on the way to discovering new ways
to treat epilepsy without the unpleasant side effects caused by many of
the current anti-epileptic medications. The researchers discovered that
the drug valproic acid boosts the amount of the protein neuropeptide Y in
the brain by about 50%. Valproic acid has been used to treat epilepsy for many years, but little was known about how it suppressed seizures. The Stanford researchers believe their discovery begins to explain why valproic acid works, and suggests a possible way to stimulate the brain to stop seizures. Neuropeptides are very small proteins that often help transmit signals between neurons – the brain cells that produce our thoughts.
The Stanford researchers are now looking
at other ways to trigger production of neuropeptides. They believe that if
a way could be found to increase neuropeptide Y only in the part of the
brain from which a particular type of seizure emanates, it might be
possible to develop drugs with few, if any, side effects. Dr Melanie MacLeod, director of care at Independence Homes, said:
“There is a huge amount of work going
into the causes and treatment of epilepsy all over the world. Clearly some
initiatives will take longer than others to come to fruition. 30% of the
456,000 people in the UK with epilepsy have uncontrolled seizures. It’s
obviously essential that epilepsy research is supported by the powers that
be, as no one should underestimate the impact that uncontrolled epilepsy
can have on so many aspects of life.” Independence Homes was formed in 1997 specifically to help people with epilepsy and learning difficulties to fulfill their potential and achieve their own objectives. Independence Homes provides accommodation and support for adults living with epilepsy, other medical needs and learning disability. Today, Independence Homes employs almost 200 staff and support over 50 adults in both supported living programmes and community based residential care.
For further information on Independence Homes please contact Jacqui Barclay on 0845 390 1234. © 2006 |
