Researcher explores new treatment for epilepsy by blocking demethylase enzyme

In a notable initiative at University College Dublin, Sujithra Srinivas, a passionate PhD researcher at the FutureNeuro Research Ireland Centre for Translational Brain Science, is engaging in significant research centered on epilepsy. Her work focuses on understanding how intricate interactions among genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors influence the development and progression of the disorder, which is a major neurologic condition affecting many people globally. Epilepsy can stem from various causes, including genetic predispositions or incidents like traumatic brain injuries, leading to long-term implications for affected individuals. Srinivas's current research aims to identify therapeutic strategies that could transform treatment outcomes, especially for those battling drug-resistant forms of epilepsy. One promising avenue involves enhancing the m6A modification by inhibiting demethylase enzymes that play a critical role in the regulation of protein synthesis within epileptic neurons. Through this focused approach, Srinivas believes it may be possible to not only control the frequency of seizures but also to impact the disease's progression fundamentally, which could revolutionize the approach to epilepsy treatment. The enthusiasm behind her research is rooted in both personal experiences and academic guidance. Srinivas recalls a moment in her educational journey when her professor vividly illustrated the complexities of the human brain, sparking a deep interest in the neurosciences. She is committed to the belief that scientific research has the power to enact positive societal changes, particularly in health-related domains. Moreover, Srinivas grapples with challenges faced in the scientific community, such as funding limitations and gender bias in STEM fields. These hurdles often complicate the advancement of innovative research efforts, with funding bodies frequently favoring projects anticipated to yield immediate commercial benefits over exploratory studies like hers, which have the potential to lead to significant medical breakthroughs. Furthermore, the underrepresentation of women in STEM contributes to a lack of diverse perspectives within scientific inquiry. Addressing these issues is essential for fostering a more inclusive and effective research environment.