The Tyndall National Institute - the Science Foundation Ireland Irish Photonic Integrated Centre (IPIC) of excellence for research, innovation and PhD training in photonics (the science and application of light) which is based in University College Cork - has announced details of a new breakthrough which could help to reduce seizures in drug-resistant epilepsy.
Tyndall are Ireland's largest largest Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) specialising in both electronics and photonics. Many people with epilepsy and their families will be familiar with treatments that that target the Vagus Nerve - and how this can potentially help to reduce a person's seizures. Vagus nerve stimulation applies electrical current pulses on a nerve originating deep in the brain, which can potentially help to reduce the number, length and severity of a person's seizures. The best current example of this is Vagus Nerve Stimulation therapy and further information on this can be found by visiting the 'Treatment' section of our website.
The technology developed at Tyndall builds on this via the use of photonics - to create a metal-free neurostimulator. This means that the technology replaces electrically conducting wires with non-conductive optical fibres and appropriate optoelectronics to stimulate the vagus nerve. This is significant as it means the device would be suitable for use in MRI systems, as the wires are not metal.
With this, the level of stimulation can be tailored to each individual's requirements, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients fitted with the new technology.
Professor William Scanlon, CEO of Tyndall, commented on the development:
We are immensely proud that this pioneering technology has been developed by the IPIC team at Tyndall. Epilepsy is a condition that affects many families across Ireland. A member of my own household lives with drug-resistant epilepsy and so I am acutely aware of the need for new approaches to reducing seizures. This technology has the potential to reduce, and in some cases stop, epileptic seizures, which will make an enormously positive impact on the lives of those who suffer from epilepsy, and for their families too
Our CEO, Peter Murphy, congratulated the researchers involved, commenting:
This development highlights the world-leading epilepsy research taking place here in Ireland and we would like to congratulate everyone involved in this breakthrough. Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in Ireland, and while most people can become seizure-free, as many as 10,000-15,000 people are still living with uncontrolled seizures. Given the impact that refractory epilepsy can have on all aspects of a person’s life, it's extremely important that new treatments continue to be developed so that people with epilepsy can have the best possible chance of achieving seizure freedom.”
We look forward to following the continuing development of this technology. In-human clinical trials are planned for next year. We will provide further information on developments on our website and social media channels.
You can read more about this research by visiting the Tyndall website, while associated coverage can also by read by visiting the Irish Times website, or by visiting the Irish Examiner website.
If you need information or support about epilepsy for you or your loved one, please do not hesitate to contact your local Community Resource Officer. You can find their details by visiting the 'Our Local Service' section of our website.