Neurochemical
and Molecular Analysis of Human Seizure Foci
Nihal
deLanerolle, D.Phil., Associate Professor of Neurosurgery (with
tenure) and Neurobiology
Current
Research Program
The major thrust of my current research is the analysis of human seizure
foci from a multidisciplinary perspective, to elucidate the neural mechanisms
underlying epileptogenesis. These studies center around three areas
-- the neuroanatomical and neurochemical definition of hippocampal and
neocortical seizure foci; the biochemistry and electrophysiology of
neuroglia at seizure foci; and the identification of novel genes expressed
at seizure foci. This work involves state-of-the-art techniques in neuroanatomy,
electron microscopy, electrophysiology and molecular biology.
A second
area of research where less effort is devoted, is the study of the neural
mechanisms of vocalization in vertebrate animals. At present these studies
explore the neural pathways in non-singing birds, in order to compare
these with those in song birds which learn their vocalizations.
Relationship
of Research to Neurological Disease
The
studies on human seizure foci are closely linked to the human clinical
epilepsy program in the department. They are undertaken in close collaboration
with the clinical program. My studies have made, and should continue
to have a direct impact on the redefinition of the epileptogenic substrate
and the classification of seizure syndromes. In consequence these studies
are important for evaluating surgical outcome, improving clinical management,
and developing new pharmacotherapeutic agents.
The studies
on the neural mechanisms of vertebrate vocalizations are very pertinent
to understanding vocal disorders, speech mechanisms, and emotional disorders.
Dr. deLanerolle
can be reached at 203-785-2597 or email to
nihal.delanerolle@yale.edu
Copyright
© 2000 Yale University School of Medicine.
All rights reserved. Comments or suggestions to the site editor.
Last
modified:
May 1, 2001
(ps) |
