10/08/2024
A new paper from Epilepsy Center has been published in *Experimental Neurology* highlighting the role of the extracellular matrix, particularly Collagen VI, in the regulation of network excitability in epilepsy. You can access the paper here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114911.
Key Highlights of the Paper:
Role of Collagen VI: The study demonstrates how Collagen VI modulates synaptic transmission, contributing to the regulation of neuronal excitability, which is crucial in understanding epilepsy mechanisms.
Potential Therapeutic Target: Findings suggest that targeting Collagen VI or its pathways could offer new avenues for developing treatments to control or prevent seizures.
Potential Biomarker: The research also highlights the potential of Collagen VI as a biomarker for epilepsy, which could be used to predict or monitor the disease's progression and response to treatment.
Comprehensive Analysis: The research combines molecular, cellular, and network-level analyses, providing a holistic view of how Collagen VI impacts brain excitability.
This research project has a long and storied history, beginning around 2008-2009 with my PhD student, Litsa Nikitidou. The project was later taken over by my postdoc, Alessandra Cifra, and subsequently by another postdoc, Tania Ramos. Over the years, many collaborators contributed significantly to this work, including groups funded by the EU Commission under the EPITARGET project at various stages. The final phase of the project was brought to completion by my PhD student, Esbjörn Melin.
Given its lengthy timeline, this project might just set a Guinness World Record for duration in neuroscience research! Joking aside, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this publication over the years. Your dedication and collaborative spirit have been essential to bringing this important work to fruition.
