New ways to detect electrical signals in the brain may be the key to better treatments for epilepsy and schizophrenia

A new way to detect electrical signals from the brain could be the key

Researchers at Aston University are exploring new ways to "listen" and record electrical signals from brain cells, which could help treat the disease

Currently, people with epilepsy who can't be helped by drugs can prevent seizures through brain surgery, which is to remove the "focus" part of the brain that caused the seizures

"The research project will use newly developed nanomaterials to keep brain samples healthy and active for far longer than existing technology allows, while recording the activity

"This gives us more insight into the causes of seizures and opens up new avenues for drug development, which means fewer surgeries

"Ultimately, this technology may lead to new and better ways to record a patient's brain

This two-year project will see materials and electrical engineering applied to translational neuroscience research

The funding comes from the Royal Society APEX Awards Programme (The Academy Partnership Award for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Research), which provides researchers with a proven track record in their field to engage in interdisciplinary research for the benefit of the wider community

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