USU Neuroscience

sbausch@usuhs.mil
 
Synaptic alterations in epileptogenesis
 
Epileptogenesis is the process by which a normal brain becomes chronically prone to seizures. Many brain insults can induce epileptogenesis, but no therapies exist to prevent it. Reorganization of neuronal circuits and alterations in individual synapses are associated with epileptogenesis. Our research goals are to elucidate the extent, the functional consequences and the mechanisms underlying these synaptic alterations and to test potential anti-epileptogenic therapies.
 
To attain these goals, we use electrophysiology (whole-cell and extracellular), pharmacological manipulations, laser-evoked photolysis of caged compounds, immunohistochemistry and histology as well as in vivo and in vitro rodent models of traumatic brain injury, epileptogenesis and temporal lobe epilepsy.
 
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