A technique that uses chemical signals to calm overactive nerve cells has shown promise for people whose epilepsy cannot be controlled by standard medication, according to correspondence published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
The New England Journal of Medicine (@NEJM) recently posted details of the correspondence, flagging new findings on chemogenetic neuromodulation (a method of switching specific brain cells on or off using engineered chemical receptors) as a potential option for refractory epilepsy — the term used when seizures continue despite trying two or more anti-seizure medicines.
Refractory epilepsy affects a significant minority of people living with the condition. For them, standard tablets and capsules simply don’t work well enough, and surgery isn’t always possible or safe.
The chemogenetic approach works differently from existing treatments. Rather than flooding the whole brain with a drug, it targets only the nerve circuits involved in triggering seizures, using specially designed receptors that respond to a chosen chemical. The aim is precision — reducing seizure activity without the broader side effects that come with many current medicines.
At the same time, the New England Journal of Medicine is one of the most widely read peer-reviewed medical journals in the world, and correspondence published there is subject to editorial scrutiny, though it does not carry the same weight as a full clinical trial report. Readers should treat these findings as early-stage rather than established practice.
Anyone in England who is concerned about seizures, or who feels their current epilepsy treatment is not working, should speak to their GP in the first instance. The NHS also runs specialist neurology services, and referrals can be requested if a patient’s condition is not well controlled. For urgent concerns, NHS 111 is available around the clock. In an emergency — for example, a seizure lasting more than five minutes — call 999.
Epilepsy Action’s helpline can be reached on 0808 800 5050.
Source: @NEJM