The Epilepsy Research Group Ongoing projects
Astrocyte-driven Brain Hyperexcitability as a Novel Treatment Target for Epilepsy
This project investigates how astrocytes regulate neuronal excitability and how astrocytic dysfunction contributes to epileptic network activity. Astrocytes control extracellular ion balance, neurotransmitter uptake, and metabolic support of neurons, and disturbances in these functions may promote pathological hyperexcitability.
A central focus is spreading depolarization, a wave of neuronal depolarization traditionally linked to migraine aura but increasingly recognized as an important modulator of seizure dynamics.
Using two-photon microscopy, electrophysiology, and optogenetic approaches, we study astrocyte-neuron interactions during seizure initiation and termination. The project is conducted in collaboration with GliaLab/Letten Centre, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, combining expertise in epilepsy research and advanced in vivo imaging.
AI-driven Optogenetic Closed-loop Seizure Control
This project aims to develop experimental systems capable of predicting and interrupting seizures in real time. Approximately one third of patients with epilepsy remain resistant to current treatments, motivating the development of new technological approaches.
We are developing a closed-loop seizure control system integrating neuronal recordings, calcium imaging of neurons and astrocytes, and machine-learning algorithms to detect early signatures of seizure activity.
When predictive patterns are detected, the system triggers optogenetic stimulation to suppress seizure activity. This work combines Neuropixels recordings, mini-two-photon microscopy, and artificial intelligence-based signal analysis, and is conducted in collaboration with the GliaLab at the University of Oslo.
Status Epilepticus: Mechanisms, Prognosis, and Neuroprotection
Status epilepticus is a life-threatening neurological emergency associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Our group conducts both clinical and experimental research aimed at improving understanding and treatment of this condition.
Clinical projects focus on predictors of outcome, treatment strategies, and long-term prognosis, often through multicenter collaborations and international research networks.
Parallel experimental studies investigate mechanisms of neuronal injury during prolonged seizures, particularly the role of neuroinflammation and age-related vulnerability of the brain. The overall goal is to develop brain-protective treatment strategies and improve early seizure termination.
We are one of the founding centres of a European Status Epilepticus registry that will in a few years create a large database to be used for further studies in the field, especially related to treatment procedures and how to conclude on optimal treatment.
Is Epilepsy a Progressive Disease?
The Pro-TLE study is a prospective longitudinal study investigating whether temporal lobe epilepsy represents a progressive neurological disorder. Patients with newly diagnosed temporal lobe epilepsy undergo detailed clinical, neuropsychological, and MRI examinations at diagnosis and are followed for up to ten years. The project aims to identify long-term structural and functional brain changes and predictors of disease progression. We also focus on progressive cognitive and behavioral changes during epileptogenesis in this patient group.
These data provide important insights into the natural history of epilepsy and may help guide treatment strategies and long-term patient management.
Genetics, Epigenetics, and Molecular Mechanisms of Epileptogenesis
This research theme investigates molecular mechanisms underlying the development of epilepsy. Using experimental models and high-throughput transcriptomic approaches, we study gene expression and epigenetic regulation during epileptogenesis.
Recent work from our group generated a stage-resolved neuron–glia transcriptional atlas of epileptogenesis, revealing a temporal shift from early neuronal stress responses to chronic glial inflammatory and remodeling processes.
These findings highlight the central role of glial cells in sustaining epileptic networks and identify potential molecular targets for antiepileptogenic therapies.
Epilepsy and cardiology
It has become increasingly clear that several epilepsies are channelopathies, as are many cardiac arrhythmias, and are associated with many of the same channels and ions. The relationship between epilepsy and cardiac arrhythmias like the long QT syndrome (LQTS) is studied. This is also of central importance for understanding sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). We have also studied the impact of several years of active epilepsy on cardiac function. A phd thesis is planned to be submitted within 2026.
Traumatic brain injury and posttraumatic epilepsy
A project to study the possible predictive value of different parameters, especially related to inflammation, measured immediately after traumatic brain injuries on the frequency of posttraumatic epilepsy was started in 2021. This is an international collaborative study with groups from US and Europe and with financial support from the US Department of Defence. First results were published in 2025.
In addition, studies on early posttraumatic seizures based on databases in department of Neurosurgery, and studies based on the national traumaregistry are performed in collaboration with among others professor Eirik Helseth, department of Neurosurgery OUH and professor Leiv Arne Rosseland, Division of Emergencies and Critical Care OUH.
The Prehospital Seizure Control trial – (PreCtrl)
ERGO is one of several collaborators in this study that started in 2024. The intention is to describe the prehospital and initial in-hospital pathways and treatment of patients with seizures, to standardize national EMS guidelines and improve time to control in seizure management for better prognosis for the patients. We also plan to implement a new model for standardizing competence, communication and treatment for prehospital seizure assessment – the PreCTRL model. The other collaborating centres are: The Norwegian Air Ambulance Foundation with project leader Maren Ranhoff Hov, Faculty of Health Science, Oslo Metropolitan University, and Department of Prehospital services, OUH.