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Updated: May 7, 2026

Analysis of Gene Expression Changes in the Rat Hippocampus After Deep Brain Stimulation of the Anterior Thalamic Nucleus

Analysis of Gene Expression Changes in the Rat Hippocampus After Deep Brain Stimulation of the Anterior Thalamic Nucleus

Published on: March 8, 2015

Deep brain stimulation for epilepsy.

Robert S Fisher¹

¹Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.

Handbook of Clinical Neurology

|October 12, 2013

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Deep brain stimulation shows promise for managing epilepsy by preventing and interrupting seizures. While not a cure, studies indicate its efficacy and tolerability, though further research is needed to optimize treatment.

Keywords:

brain stimulation epilepsy hippocampus neuromodulation neurostimulation responsive neurostimulation stereotactic neurosurgery thalamus

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Area of Science:

Neurology
Neurosurgery
Epileptology

Background:

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been explored for seizure management across various brain regions.
Research has focused on seizure prevention and interruption, but not epilepsy cure.
Numerous stimulation parameters and targets have been investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the current state of deep brain stimulation for epilepsy.
To identify the extent of clinical research and patient involvement.
To highlight existing knowledge gaps and future research directions.

Main Methods:

Systematic literature review of clinical studies on DBS for epilepsy.
Analysis of targeted brain regions, stimulation parameters, and reported outcomes.
Identification of randomized controlled trials and their findings.

Main Results:

52 clinical studies involving 817 patients were identified.
Two large, randomized controlled trials demonstrated efficacy and tolerability for DBS in specific targets (anterior thalamus, seizure focus).
No studies have shown DBS to be a cure for epilepsy.

Conclusions:

Deep brain stimulation is a viable option for seizure management, with demonstrated efficacy in select cases.
Significant questions remain regarding optimal parameters, patient selection, predictive markers, and long-term effects.
Further laboratory research and clinical experience are crucial to advance DBS therapy for epilepsy.