A recent study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has introduced a new experimental peptide that may help reduce recurring seizures in epilepsy by addressing underlying oxidative stress and inflammation, processes increasingly linked to the disease.
Epilepsy affects about 50 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. The disorder is characterized by repeated seizures and can impact mood, memory, and daily functioning. While many patients respond to current medications aimed at controlling seizures, up to 40 percent do not see enough benefit, and existing drugs generally do not prevent the condition from progressing over time.
The research was led by PhD students Prince Kumar Singh and Shweta Maurya under Prof. Tawfeeq Shekh-Ahmad of the School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, with Prof. Daphne Atlas of the Alexander Silberman Institute for Life Sciences. Their findings were published in Redox Biology.
The focus of the study was TXM-CB3, an experimental tripeptide designed to mimic thioredoxin—a natural protein that helps cells manage chemical stress and regulate inflammation. Thioredoxin’s protective functions are believed to be important in both seizure activity and how epilepsy progresses.
Early laboratory tests using nerve cell models showed that TXM-CB3 reduced markers of chemical strain and shifted immune responses toward less inflammation. In preclinical models simulating severe, drug-resistant epilepsy, early treatment with TXM-CB3 delayed seizure onset, reduced frequency, lowered overall seizure burden, and preserved brain regions involved in memory. Behavioral improvements such as lower anxiety-like behavior and better short-term memory were also observed.
When treatment started later in the course of the disease model, TXM-CB3 still reduced ongoing seizure activity but did not significantly reverse existing cognitive problems. This suggests early intervention could be more effective for preserving brain function.
"The fact that we saw both reduced seizure activity and signs of brain protection in these experimental models strengthens the case for developing treatments that build on the body's own protective pathways," said Prof. Atlas.
Current therapies mainly suppress seizures as they occur but do not address biological factors that may allow them to return or lead to long-term effects like anxiety or cognitive impairment. The new approach aims to modify these underlying conditions for improved outcomes.
The researchers noted their results are based on experimental models and additional studies will be required before determining safety and effectiveness in humans. They remain hopeful that this strategy could eventually improve both seizure control and quality of life for people with epilepsy.
