Epilepsy

Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder worldwide and occurs across all ages. As there can be different causes, different seizure types, and a range of cognitive and or behavioural comorbidities, there is increasing recognition of epilepsy as a group of conditions and use of the term “epilepsies”.

Within a month of life commencing, we start forming the early structures that make up the human brain. Millions of cells (neurones and glia) are generated and all have to migrate to the correct location and make connections with other cells. Many of our researchers are interested in how this process occurs and how the complex interactions between cells are achieved. This process can sometimes occur unconventionally, leading to conditions that manifest during development and childhood but often persist throughout life.

Neuroscience research in Edinburgh takes place within a vibrant, integrated, and interdisciplinary research environment that encourages interaction between researchers working at all levels, from molecules, through synapses and networks, to cognition and behaviour.  Our research spans the whole life course from birth through adulthood to old age, with fundamental and clinical work integrated across all areas. Across the life course there are shared mechanisms and overlap so our researchers often find themselves working across life-course areas too.