Why doesn't the aging brain take the hyperexcitation anymore?

consultant, professor
Christoph Beier
Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark

Projekt styring

Projekt status	Open



Data indsamlingsdatoer
Start	01.04.2025
Slut	31.03.2028

Projektet i tal

OPEN undersøgelse/kliniske data
Forventet # af deltagere	60
Inkluderet antal deltagere



OPEN Biobank
Forventede deltagere med prøver	60
Inkluderede deltagere med prøver
Prøver

Why doesn't the aging brain take the hyperexcitation anymore?

Short summary

This project investigates why aging brains are more vulnerable to hyperexcitation, such as in status epilepticus (SE). Using EEG, PET-MRI, CSF, blood biomarkers, and immune profiling in 60 adult patients, it examines the link between age, astrocytic damage, and pro-inflammatory senescence-associated responses. The aim is to find therapeutic targets to protect neurons without heavy sedation, improving SE outcomes in the elderly.

Rationale

The project addresses why aging brains sustain more damage from status epilepticus (SE). Evidence suggests age-related shifts in astrocytes and microglia toward a pro-inflammatory, neurotoxic state worsen SE-induced injury. Understanding these immune changes could reveal targets for treatments that protect neurons without heavy sedation.

Description of the cohort

Patients with status epilepticus admitted to the Odense University Hospital

Data and biological material

Various data and biological material

Collaborating researchers and departments

Nuclear Medicine, OUH