The effect of aerobic versus strength training on the treatment of epilepsy

Project by Polygence alum Jonathan

The effect of aerobic versus strength training on the treatment of epilepsy

Project's result

My project was presented at the Polygence Symposium, submitted to the IYNA for journal publishing, posted on my student medical website, and my linkedin page

They started it from zero. Are you ready to level up with us?

Summary

Numerous rodent and human studies have found exercise to decrease the effects of epilepsy both reducing number of seizures and increasing latency to seizure. However, it is unclear whether different forms of exercise have differential effects on improving epilepsy. Jack seeks to examine whether type of exercise--aerobic versus strength training--has an effect on seizure burden and susceptibility. He is also interested in the interplay of exercise and parvalbumin (PV) interneurons. What effect does exercise have on inhibitory interneurons? Does type of exercise alter this effect? These questions will get at the most effective exercise approach to reduce and prevent seizures and begin to understand the mechanism behind this remarkable effect.

Samantha

Samantha

Polygence mentor

MD/PhD Doctor of Medicine and of Philosophy candidate

Subjects

Arts, Medicine, Neuroscience

Expertise

Traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, computational neuroscience, virology & viral entry, violin performance

Jonathan

Jonathan

Student

Graduation Year

2026

Project review

“The professionalism and outreach of my mentor gave me both incredible confidence and curiosity about my project. I started my project with a topic already in mind and was encouraged to go with this topic, as it was both unique and personal to me. Throughout the process, my mentor knew exactly what I needed in order to stay on track and complete my project ahead of time.”

About my mentor

“Samantha is unbelievably knowledgeable, patient, and kind.”