Scientists at the University of California, San Francisco, found that brain activity 24 hours before the onset of epileptic seizures can predict their occurrence. Research results published In the journal Nature Medicine.
The study involved 15 volunteers with epilepsy who had previously had RNS (Responsive Neurostimulation System) devices implanted in their brains. They are used to prevent epileptic seizures in people who do not respond to drug treatment. The device monitors and interrupts the changing electrical activity in the brain caused by an impending attack.
While monitoring the participants, the researchers found that the risk of seizures was associated with changes in the connectivity between two parts of the hippocampus. The hippocampus is a paired formation located in the temporal lobes of each hemisphere of the vertebrate brain. It plays a role in learning and memory retention, the emergence of emotions and motivation, and sustaining attention.
The researchers found that when the right and left sides of the hippocampus function independently, normally and healthily, the likelihood of a seizure is low: a gradual synchronization of the two parts, manifested by specific patterns of electrical activity in the brain, signals that an attack is coming.
According to scientists, analyzing 90 seconds of such data activity using special algorithms was enough to predict the probability of a seizure occurring in the next 24 hours.
Now scientists plan to improve the diagnostic technique by developing a method to collect data non-invasively (without placing electrodes in the brain). The researchers hope that the future-prediction system will improve the quality of life of epilepsy patients by allowing them to take timely precautions when a seizure is approaching.
Earlier scientists “I overheard” a person’s inner voice using electrodes in the brain.