In genetic epilepsies, mutations – frequently in neuronally expressed ion channels – cause neuronal hyperexcitability, epilepsy, as well as frequently cognitive comorbidities. We are interested in the following questions, together with our collaborators Albert Becker, Dirk Isbrandt and Tony Kelly: How do mutations that are present throughout development, and in all brain regions, give rise to disease manifestations that are frequently linked to specific circuits or brain regions? We are also exploring new forms of gene therapy using CRISPRa and CRISPRi, and are studying when and where to apply them for the maximum therapeutic effect.