Precision Medicine for Genetic Epilepsies — Bringing Tomorrow’s Treatments to Patients Today
At Georgia Epilepsy & Neurology Institute, we are committed to delivering the most advanced, science‑driven care available for children and adults with genetic epilepsies. Gene‑targeted therapies represent one of the most promising breakthroughs in modern neurology — offering treatment approaches designed to address the root cause of epilepsy rather than only managing symptoms.
Our physicians, Dr. Ki Hyeong Lee and Dr. Joo Hee Seo, bring deep expertise in genetic epilepsies, precision medicine, and clinical research. We guide families through genetic testing, interpretation, treatment planning, and access to emerging therapies and clinical trials.
What Are Gene‑Targeted Therapies?
Gene‑targeted therapies are treatments designed to modify, replace, or regulate the specific genetic changes that cause epilepsy. Unlike traditional antiseizure medications — which focus on reducing seizures — gene‑targeted therapies aim to correct the underlying biological mechanism.
These therapies may include:
- Gene replacement therapies
- Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs)
- RNA‑modifying therapies
- Precision small‑molecule treatments
- Pathway‑specific targeted medications
This approach represents a major shift toward personalized, mechanism‑based epilepsy care.
Who May Benefit From Gene‑Targeted Therapy?
Gene‑targeted therapies are most relevant for patients with confirmed or suspected genetic epilepsies, including:
- SCN1A‑related disorders (Dravet syndrome)
- SCN2A, SCN8A, KCNQ2, KCNT1 epilepsies
- CDKL5 deficiency disorder
- PCDH19‑related epilepsy
- STXBP1 encephalopathy
- Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC1/TSC2)
- Other developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs)
Our team evaluates each patient’s clinical history, seizure type, developmental profile, and genetic findings to determine eligibility for targeted therapies or clinical trials.
Genetic Testing & Evaluation
Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward precision treatment. We coordinate:
- Comprehensive epilepsy gene panels
- Whole‑exome sequencing (WES)
- Targeted single‑gene testing
- Metabolic and mitochondrial evaluations
Once results are available, we provide:
- Clear interpretation
- Counseling on treatment implications
- Guidance on next steps, including trial eligibility
Families receive a detailed, understandable explanation of what each genetic finding means for treatment and prognosis.
Current & Emerging Gene‑Targeted Treatments
We stay at the forefront of emerging therapies, including:
1. Antisense Oligonucleotide (ASO) Therapies
Designed to modify RNA expression for conditions such as SCN1A, SCN2A, and CDKL5.
2. Gene Replacement Therapies
Experimental treatments that introduce functional copies of defective genes.
3. Pathway‑Specific Targeted Medications
Examples include mTOR inhibitors for TSC and precision sodium‑channel modulators for SCN‑related epilepsies.
4. Personalized Medicine Approaches
Treatments tailored to the patient’s specific mutation and functional impact.
We provide up‑to‑date guidance on which therapies are available, which are in clinical trials, and which may be appropriate for your child or adult family member.
Access to Clinical Trials
We collaborate closely with:
- Emory Epilepsy Center
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA)
- National and international research networks
- Industry‑sponsored gene therapy programs
Our role includes:
- Identifying eligible patients
- Coordinating referrals
- Preparing medical documentation
- Supporting families throughout the process
We ensure that patients have access to the full spectrum of emerging therapies, even those available only at specialized research centers.
Why Choose Us for Gene‑Targeted Epilepsy Care?
- Expertise in pediatric and adult genetic epilepsies
- Deep understanding of precision medicine and clinical research
- Seamless coordination of genetic testing and interpretation
- Access to cutting‑edge clinical trials
- Lifespan care — from infancy through adulthood
- Compassionate, family‑centered guidance at every step
Our goal is to bring the most advanced science directly to the families who need it.
A Future of Hope Through Innovation
Gene‑targeted therapies are transforming the landscape of epilepsy care. While not every patient is eligible today, the field is evolving rapidly — and we are committed to ensuring our patients benefit from every new breakthrough.
We walk with families through:
- Diagnosis
- Treatment planning
- Trial evaluation
- Long‑term follow‑up
Innovation is not just about new treatments — it’s about giving families clarity, options, and hope.