Theresa Hernandez - US grants

Seizures frequently accompany brain injury. However, the incidence and persistence of post-traumatic seizures depend greatly upon the site and nature of the damage. It is widely accepted that seizures occurring after brain damage are detrimental to recovery because they increase the risk of post-traumatic epilepsy and when severe enough, can cause neuronal damage in and of themselves. Consequently, anticonvulsants are commonly administered in an effort to prevent the occurrence of seizures after brain injury. Yet, only a few clinical studies have systematically investigated the effects of this anti-convulsant prophylaxis on recovery from the behavioral deficits produced by the brain damage. Indeed, the focus of the majority of the studies has been to determine the success with which anti- convulsants prevent pot-traumatic seizures, per se, and not the impact of this procedure on recovery of function. Findings from a recent clinical study, as well as studies using animals, suggest that the use of anti- convulsants following brain damage may not be beneficial for behavioral recovery, and may, indeed, be detrimental. Moreover, there are some data in the animal literature to suggest that mild, infrequent seizures following brain damage may facilitate behavioral recovery. Because of the importance of these issues, whether or not preventing post-traumatic seizures with anti-convulsants is truly beneficial to recovery from behavioral deficits, the following research plan is proposed: (a) systematically determine the effect of experimentally-induced ("kindled") seizures on recovery of somatosensory function following cortex damage, (b) determine if preventing those seizures with anti-convulsants (including diazepam, phenobarbital and phenytoin) alters this outcome, and (c) determine the impact of each of these manipulations on postsynaptic receptor sensitivity as measured electrophysiologically. Results from these studies should provide information as to the mechanisms by which post-traumatic seizures and anti-convulsant administration affect behavioral recovery and, perhaps, suggest ways to minimize the degree of deficit following brain injury, while at the same time decreasing the likelihood of post-traumatic epilepsy.

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): CANDIDATE: The candidate, Theresa D. Hernandez, Ph.D, is an Associate Professor in the Dept. of Psychology and the Center for Neuroscience. Dr. Hernandez's research has utilized animal models to assess the neurobehavioral consequences of anti-convulsant drugs and seizures after brain injury. She has been a successful, independent, extramurally-funded researcher in this area. Her immediate goal is to acquire new research skills and training to help her achieve her long-term goal of developing a successful, independent, extramurally-funded research program in the clinical science fields of stroke and complementary & alternative medicine (CAM). The proposed K01 development plan will provide Dr. Hernandez with the necessary training to achieve her goal. CAREER DEVELOPMENT PLAN: Dr. Hernandez's research career development training activities consist of: 1) acquired research skills associated with and supplementary to the proposed research plan; and 2) structured activities including formal course work, attendance and presentations at scientific meetings, as well as intensive interactions with her mentors and their research groups. ENVIRONMENT: The environment for Dr. Hernandez's training is outstanding. The Sponsor (Dr. Seals) is a well-established, extramurally-funded scientist with a strong record of mentoring in biomedical and clinical research. His mentoring will be rounded out by a team of extramurally-funded consulting mentors who will provide expertise in specific areas of the training plan. RESEARCH: The general aim of this research is to determine whether a complementary therapeutic approach, Jin Shin Tara (acupressure-like touch), can diminish stroke-associated functional disabilities associated with hemiplegia and aphasia during the stable, post-stroke period. The general hypothesis is that Jin Shin treatment will decrease stroke-associated deficits and disability. Results supporting this hypothesis will provide a scientific basis for the potential use of a complementary therapeutic approach in individuals years after stroke, for whom there are few interventions and a great deal of dependence on providers and family.