The mission of the TSCRP is to encourage innovative research aimed at understanding the pathogenesis and manifestations of TSC to improve the lives of individuals with TSC. Within this context, the FY13 TSCRP encourages applications that address one or more of these vital program Focus Areas: • Genetic, epigenetic, and non-genetic modifiers of TSC. • Preclinical models and therapeutic strategies (e.g., cytotoxic agents, combination therapies). • Biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and prediction of treatment outcomes (such as serum markers, imaging, electrophysiology, prenatal testing, and pharmacogenetics). • Impact of TSC manifestations in adults (e.g., care management, age-specific pathogenesis, epidemiology, renal, reproductive issues, and lymphangioleiomyomatosis [LAM]). • Long-term benefits and effects of mTOR inhibitors or other agents. • Novel strategies for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of TSC manifestations including those geared toward early identification and intervention. • Cellular and molecular mechanisms of TSC and LAM pathogenesis. • Causes and treatment of epilepsy in TSC. • Causes and treatment of TSC-associated neurocognitive disorders including cognitive impairment, and psychiatric, behavioral, and sleep disorders. The FY13 TSCRP Idea Development Award supports high-impact, innovative research that will drive the field of TSC research forward. Preclinical studies are encouraged, but clinical trials are not allowed. Applications must include preliminary or published data that is relevant to TSC and the proposed research project. The TSCRP encourages applications for the Idea Development Award from new investigators including but not limited to: • New investigators in TSC who have not received more than $300,000 in total direct costs for TSC research as a Principal Investigator (PI) of one or more federally funded, non-mentored peer reviewed awards. • Established independent investigators in an area other than TSC seeking to transition into a career in TSC research.