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Investigators Workshop | Thalamic Neuromodulation in Focal and Generalized Epilepsies

Sunday, December 5, 2021
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OVERVIEW:

This session delves into the role of the thalamus and the potential for therapeutic interventions targeting the thalamocortical network.  

The pathophysiological role of the thalamus in the genesis of seizures and the epilepsies comorbidities is becoming increasingly appreciated. These observations have major therapeutic implications and have prompted the development of novel neuromodulation strategies.  

This workshop reviews:  

  1. The historical context of the engagement of the thalamus: the centrencephalic theory, insights from prior thalamic lesional, and recent optogenetic studies 
  2. Recent electrophysiological and imaging studies that highlight the functional role of thalamic sub-nuclei in epilepsies 
  3. The scientific rationale for and updates from ongoing clinical trials of novel neuromodulation strategies targeting the thalamocortical network 

Learning Objectives:

Following participation in this activity, participants will be able to: 

  • Explain the historical contexts and pathophysiologic mechanisms from preclinical to clinical studies 
  • Examine the evidence that highlights the functional role of thalamus in generalized and focal epilepsies 
  • Discuss the potential of thalamic subnuclei as a target for neuromodulation 

Program:

Moderators: Sandipan Pati, MBBS, MRCP and Nitin Tandon, MD 

Speakers: Hal Blumenfeld, MD, PhD, Emilia Toth, PhD, and Robert Fisher, MD, PhD, FAES

Activity Type
Investigators Workshop
Credit
Non-CME
Format
In person
Career Stage
Early Career (typically 0-5 years from completion of training)
Mid-Career (typically 6-15 years from completion of training)
Senior (typically >15 years from completion of training)
Audience
Advanced Practice Providers
Behavioral Health Providers
Clinicians
Fellows/Trainees
Scientists/Researchers
Technicians
Demographic
Clinical
First-time Attendees
Research
Young Professionals