Study of Specimens Obtained During Epilepsy Surgery

This is a protocol to perform research studies on tissues that are removed in the operating room during surgical procedures for drug resistant epilepsy. Our aim is to acquire and supply useful tissue specimens for intramural NIH research projects. The investigators will evaluate participants with medically intractable drug resistant epilepsy who are considered for surgery to determine whether surgical specimen may be available for this protocol. Surgery and standard care for these participants will be performed under a separate protocol, 11-N-0051 Epilepsy Surgery. The intent of this protocol is solely for procuring tissue that is resected for standard clinical care during surgery. This protocol is not designed to test any new treatments. These are the research aspects of the protocol: 1) Any brain tissue that is removed and is not required for diagnostic studies will be used for laboratory studies, consistent with institutional guidelines. 2) Blood tests to test for immune and inflammatory mediators will be performed. 3) Saliva will be collected to test for immune and inflammatory markers.