Child Development Research Rolandic Epilepsy
Rolandic Epilepsy – Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes
Our interest in the developing brain began with a focus on Rolandic Epilepsy (RE) and its high co‑occurrence with neurodevelopmental conditions. Although our scientific priorities have evolved over the years, we remain committed to furthering understanding of RE.
We are now fully allocated for 2026, and current planning indicates that opportunities for 2027 are likely to be provisionally committed as we scope a new three‑year partnership. As a result, we are not currently inviting new applications in this area.
However, we still encourage researchers with an interest in RE or related neurodevelopmental topics to stay in touch. We would love to hear what you are up to and how we might be able to collaborate in the future!
Our Research Strategy for Rolandic Epilepsy (RE)
Our continued interest in this area centres around three main areas:
Childhood Physical Activity and Psychological Outcomes
Investigating the impact of physical activity, or the lack thereof, on child psychological outcomes, encompassing behavioral, emotional, and cognitive aspects. This exploration can include both typically-developing children and those with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), providing a comprehensive understanding of the nuanced relationships.
1. Clinician Awareness and Support
Recognising the link between neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), sleep, and RE is crucial for providing comprehensive patient care. Research in this area should:
- Develop educational initiatives to enhance clinician awareness of the interconnections between RE, NDD, and sleep.
- Explore effective methods for ensuring patients diagnosed with RE receive appropriate NDD support, potentially through the development of guidelines or protocols.
2. Long-Term Outcomes of RE
The long-term effects of RE beyond seizure outcomes warrant comprehensive investigation. While existing studies have focused on seizure frequency, there is a notable gap in understanding the extended impact on cognitive/memory function and brain structure. Research efforts should prioritise prospective, long-term, and randomised studies to elucidate:
- The influence of Anti-Seizure Medications (ASMs) on both seizure frequency and cognition, identifying specific drugs that may have differential effects.
- Whether cognitive recovery occurs spontaneously with epilepsy remission or if challenges persist, particularly in the critical teenage/early adult phase post-seizure remission.
- Identifying a potential ‘high-risk’ period during assumed remission can significantly contribute to our understanding of the condition’s resolution and persistence.
3. Learning and Language
Addressing the linguistic and memory impairments prevalent in RE requires a multifaceted approach. Research initiatives should:
- Explore the disruption of long-range networks by Rolandic spiking and its impact on developmental refinement and memory consolidation.
- Investigate whether RE interrupts memory consolidation during sleep, potentially uncovering novel therapeutic interventions.
By addressing these key research areas, we aim to advance our understanding of RE, improve clinical outcomes, and contribute to the development of targeted interventions for individuals affected by this complex condition.
Please ensure you have read all the information related to our Child Development Research calls available on our website to get a good feel for our fund before putting together an application. Then, please read through our application guidelines and FAQs to learn more about the application process.