Zempel Lab

John Zempel, MD, PhD

The Zempel Lab aims to improve seizure localization and damage assessment through advanced imaging techniques and novel contrast agents. The team also focuses on enhancing the quantitative analysis of brain activity to support more effective epilepsy surgery evaluations.

Imaging-based seizure localization
As a pediatric epileptologist, Zempel’s research centers on developing imaging modalities that can be translated to human use. By studying a model system of partial seizures adapted for the magnetic resonance (MR) environment, the lab can measure electrical signals concurrently with imaging. Using both conventional and newly developed MR techniques, the team has successfully localized ongoing seizure activity and assessed seizure-related brain damage. They are also developing and applying new MR contrast agents to further improve seizure localization and advance epilepsy diagnosis and treatment.

Quantitative analysis of brain activity
A second major focus is the quantitative characterization of electrical activity recorded directly from the human brain during epilepsy surgery evaluations. With increasing computational power, it is now possible to analyze brain activity in real time during surgical procedures. These techniques aim to detect and predict seizures and identify zones of abnormal brain tissue, contributing to more precise and effective surgical outcomes.

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