The impact of supplemental vitamin D on motor learning and seizures in mice with hyperactive mTOR induced epilepsy and ataxia.

Genetic mutations that cause hyperactive mTOR signaling in the cerebellum lead to disrupted cerebellar growth, debilitating motor impairments, and may contribute to the development of epilepsy. mTOR inhibitors can reduce seizures and may prevent behavioral impairments but are associated with serious side effects. Thus, a critical need for better therapies to treat individuals with hyperactive mTOR induced motor impairments and epilepsy remains. Vitamin D has been shown to suppress mTOR signaling and abate seizure severity. However, it has not been determined if vitamin D can ameliorate the development of motor impairments and epilepsy caused by hyperactive mTOR signaling. Here, we determine the effects of high dose vitamin D on cerebellar growth, mTOR signaling, and markers of vitamin D signaling and metabolism in a mouse model of hyperactive mTOR induced epilepsy and ataxia.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Doctoral

Grantor

Baylor University.

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Narvaiz, David A., 1985-

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Lugo, Joaquin N.

• Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)
• Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)
• Vitamin D.
• Cerebellum.
• Epilepsy.

Statement dc:rights

• Baylor University works are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. Contact libraryquestions@baylor.edu for inquiries about permission.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/2104/13185

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:baylor-ir.tdl.org:2104/13185