Mapping variations in seizure susceptibility across the brain to identify seizure highways and hubs. (Neuroscience)

Most epileptic seizures arise either in the neocortex or the hippocampus. The site of origin determines many key features of the condition, in each individual patient, including how seizures might be triggered, what premonitory symptoms and signs there are, and also, how it may be treated. The functional anatomy of the seizures – where the seizures start, and their path through the brain - is of particular importance when the epilepsy does not respond to medical management, because surgical treatments may help. In the past, this usually entailed resection of the pathological site, but the development of new brain-machine interface technology provides possibilities for entirely new surgical treatments. 

We will aim to identify “lines of weakness” through the brain, which represent preferential routes for seizure spread. If such “seizure highways” exist, these could be important targets for surgical treatment. We will test this hypothesis by examining seizure susceptibility simultaneously in different parts of a mouse’s brain, using single-photon widefield microscopy. When neurons are recruited to a seizure, Ca²⁺ floods into the cell, and this can be visualised using fluorescent Ca²⁺ indicators. We can use this technology to follow seizure activity in the living brain. We will also use optogenetics, a technique which uses light to control neuronal activity, to assay seizure susceptibility and control the spread of epileptic activity at particular sites, or “choke points”. In parallel studies, we will use our mouse knowledge to understand specific clinical cases, using recordings from surgically resected human brain tissue.

How to Apply:

Applications should be made by emailing [Email Address Removed] with:

• a CV (including contact details of at least two academic (or other relevant) referees);
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Informal enquiries may be made to [Email Address Removed]. The closing date for applications is 31st March 2022 at 5.00pm (UK time).