SUMMARY
Gregory A. Worrell, M.D., Ph.D., focuses his research on epilepsy — a neurological disorder that causes seizures and affects more than 50 million people worldwide. For many patients, current medical therapies do not adequately control seizures. Advances in neuroengineering have led to the development of implantable devices designed to treat epilepsy. Early clinical trials using first-generation brain stimulation devices have shown excellent safety profiles, but further improvements in effectiveness are needed.
Dr. Worrell's Bioelectronics Neurophysiology and Engineering Lab focuses on identifying electrophysiological signatures of the epileptogenic brain and understanding the transition from normal brain activity to seizures — a process known as ictogenesis. The lab investigates biomarkers that signal epileptogenic brain activity and precursor patterns that may precede clinical seizures. These discoveries could enable the development of seizure warning devices and improve the effectiveness of epilepsy surgery and brain stimulation therapies.
Focus areas
- Brain mapping
- Comorbidities of epilepsy, such as depression, cognition and sleep disturbances
- Electroencephalography
- Epilepsy
- Seizures
Significance to patient care
Dr. Worrell's lab works to turn scientific discoveries into real-world treatments that help people with epilepsy. His team is developing new devices that can better manage seizures. These devices will be able to sense changes in brain activity, predict when a seizure might happen and respond with treatment right away — helping patients get the right care at the right time.
Professional highlights
- Mayo Clinic:
- EndPoint Research Funding Award, 2025-2027.
- William L. McKnight-3M Professor in Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 2024-present.
- American Epilepsy Society:
- Chair, Merritt-Putnam Symposium, 2015-2018.
- Chair, Research Initiative Committee, 2011-2013.
- The Maggie Loeffel Award, Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy, 2004.