DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED MEDICAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS
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Epilepsy

Vision - The ERP envisions a time when the causative links between TBI and epilepsy are understood and post-traumatic epilepsy is preventable

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The ERP was initiated in 2015 to develop an understanding of the magnitude of post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) within the military and to expand research into the basic mechanisms by which traumatic brain injury (TBI) produces epilepsy. To this end, and to satisfy the ERP's Mission and Vision, the ERP has identified the following research Focus Areas for FY 16:

  • Epidemiology: Epidemiological characterization of PTE following TBI, which may include:
    • Risk factors such as demographics, genetic factors, organic head injury factors, or type of insult
    • Differentiation of PTE and Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES)
    • Outcomes including latency to epilepsy, morbidities and comorbidities, and mortality
    • Pre-existing conditions including psychological and psychiatric risk factors

  • Markers and Mechanisms: Identifying markers or mechanisms (via clinical prospective or preclinical models) that address PTE:
    • Early detection
    • Diagnosis
    • Prognosis
    • Morbidity
    • Comorbidity
    • Mortality
    • Risk stratification

  • Models of PTE: Development of new models or better characterization of existing etiologically relevant models for PTE, including repetitive TBI.

  • Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures: Exploration of the epidemiology, mechanisms, risk factors, or markers of PNES subsequent to TBI. Preclinical research on non-pharmacological interventions in this population is also encouraged.

Congressional Appropriations

Congressional Appropriations

  • $7.5 million
    FY15
  • $7.5 million
    in FY 16

...

Funding
Summary

Programmatic Panels

Programmatic Panels

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Vision

The ERP envisions a time when the causative links between TBI and epilepsy are understood and post-traumatic epilepsy is preventable

Mission

The ERP's mission is to fund research to understand the magnitude, and the underlying mechanisms of PTE, especially in Service members and Veterans.


Last updated Tuesday August 30 2016