The 2021 Epilepsy Research Benchmarks—Respecting Core Principles, Reflecting Evolving Community Priorities

Precision medicine for genetic epilepsy on the horizon: Recent advances, present challenges, and suggestions for continued progress

“…We and others argue that the international epilepsy community is at an “inflection point” in our efforts toward epilepsy PM, 91 at which coordinated and concerted efforts will be needed to translate the gains highlighted in this review into epilepsy precision therapies. A working group of the Epilepsy Leadership Council in the United States recently proposed development of a “National Plan,” modeled on efforts in pediatric oncology (e.g., http://childrensoncologygroup.org) 91 following the Curing the Epilepsies Conference in 2021 98 . National and international coordination could fully integrate scientific discovery, increasing clinical knowledge, and health policy to overcome the tendency for these areas to become siloed.…”

“…A working group of the Epilepsy Leadership Council in the United States recently proposed development of a "National Plan," modeled on efforts in pediatric oncology (e.g., Child rensO ncolo gyGro up.org) 91 following the Curing the Epilepsies Conference in 2021. 98 National and international coordination could fully integrate scientific discovery, increasing clinical knowledge, and health policy to overcome the tendency for these areas to become siloed. Important organizing forces are already in place.…”

The BEST Conceivable Way to Talk About Epilepsy Biomarkers

“…therapy can be selected." 1,2 There is a great deal of ongoing research into different forms of "epilepsy biomarkers," and many publications and grant proposals use that term to satisfy the Benchmarks. Referring to biomarkers is potentially powerful because of the clarity and research norms associated with biomarkers.…”

“…I do not think it means what you think it means.–Vizzini (paraphrased) and Inigo Montoya on the Cliffs of Insanity, The Princess Bride , William GoldmanFor years, researchers have sought ways to improve epilepsy diagnosis and treatment. Two of the 2021 Epilepsy Research Benchmarks (II.C, III.B) specifically seek to “identify biomarkers that will aid in identifying, predicting, and monitoring” epilepsy “so that the most appropriate…therapy can be selected.” 1,2 There is a great deal of ongoing research into different forms of “epilepsy biomarkers,” and many publications and grant proposals use that term to satisfy the Benchmarks. Referring to biomarkers is potentially powerful because of the clarity and research norms associated with biomarkers.…”