The Epilepsy Phenome Genome Project (www.epgp.org) is the largest research study ever created to identify genes that influence epilepsy and genes that affect an individual’s response to seizure medications. The National Institutes of Health is partnering with major epilepsy centers around the country to collect detailed information on more than 2,000 families over five years. The goal is to understand what causes epilepsy, which treatment will be effective, and why some families have multiple relatives with seizures.

Participation involves a blood draw and interviews.  Numerous safeguards are in place to protect the privacy of participants.  Participants will receive a small compensation for their time, and can participate through the phone and mail from anywhere in the U.S. 

EPGP is looking for two types of participants:

1)      People who have been diagnosed with epilepsy, and also have a brother, sister, parent, or child with epilepsy. 

2)      People who have been diagnosed with one of several types of rare epilepsy and both biological parents are willing to participate.  These types of epilepsies include seizures due to: Infantile Spasms, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, Polymicrogyria, or Periventricular Nodular Heterotopia.

If you would like more information about the project please contact:

Website: www.epgp.org

E-mail: info@epgp.org

Toll-free Phone: 1-888-279-3747