We have reviewed some of the important studies published within the last 18 
months that have advanced our understanding of the epilepsies, their aetiology 
and treatment. Clinical studies have revealed new insights into old themes 
including seizure prediction, mortality in epilepsy, febrile seizures and the 
pathophysiology of focal cortical dysplasias. The rapid advances in genetics and 
particularly whole exome sequencing have had an impact on our understanding of 
epileptic encephalopathies, and the aetiology of hippocampal sclerosis. 
Experimental research techniques such as viral vector gene delivery, 
optogenetics and cell based transplantation techniques have set the framework 
for novel approaches to the treatment of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. These few 
examples are indicative of the great strides that have recently been made in 
epilepsy research.