Vision and ambition

Roland Thijs and Maeike Zijlmans

Epilepsy still poses major challenges. The clinical management of seizures has advanced over the last 100 years due to pharmacological progress and the introduction of surgery. Our understanding of aetiology has improved through developments in imaging and genomics. In the future, genome-wide scanning will further advance the elucidation of epilepsy.

It is, however, unrealistic to assume that genomics alone will clarify the causality or architecture of the multiple factors underlying seizures. Investigative tools such as state-of-the-art neuroimaging, various modalities of physiological testing, as well as basic science, translational and clinical facilities, will also be required. Genomics will form the cornerstone of a rational approach to diseases, which will be defined by their pathophysiological underpinnings. This requires moving beyond a single-condition-oriented focus towards a systems approach.

Complex system interactions are increasingly being identified; the emphasis is shifting away from the individual molecule, gene, or disease. Genomic findings need to be interpreted and understood in terms of functionality and interactions. A strong basic research environment is essential before these findings can be translated into personalised treatments for each individual.
Our vision is to provide research solutions that improve the quality of life of people with epilepsy and sleep disorders. We strive to catalyse personalised treatments in the fields of epilepsy and sleep medicine. To achieve this overarching goal, we concentrate our work on three core themes that form our research programmes: