Study examines how rare gene mutation causes epilepsy

A rare genetic mutation has been found to cause "uninterrupted" flow of sodium into brain cells, leading to epilepsy in infants, according to a study.

The finding can help in treating epilepsy patients by synthesis of drugs capable of modifying the functioning of the sodium channels, the researchers said.

Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which one is vulnerable to experiencing recurrent unprovoked seizures or fits. The condition can lead to severe disability or death.

Researchers explained that proteins inside brain cells (neurons), called 'sodium channels', have a mechanism that works like a "selfclosing gate".