Dr. Alfred Knudson (1922-2016), known as the father of hereditary tumor, proposed his unique hypothesis (the 2-hit theory) in 1971. His research suggested the existence of tumor suppressor genes and paved the way for hereditary tumor studies that followed. Dr. Knudson also contributed to the research of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) through the utilization of an animal model, the Eker rat. I was fortunate to study under him during my stay in the United States; unquestionably, he was to me an inspirational mentor.
Although most tumor lesions of TSC are not malignant, they are all intractable. Currently, rapamycin and its derivatives are being used as a pharmacologic treatment to control mTORC1. However, there is a limit to the effectiveness, and the development of new drugs would be desirable in the future. Also, various neuropsychiatric symptoms, called TAND (tuberous sclerosis-associated neuropsychiatric disordes), are problems to be overcome. We hope that this conference provides an opportunity for presenting such important issues and new developments, in addition to the various valuable studies ongoing in the TSC community.
Further, we see the purpose of this International TSC Research Conference Sept 13-15, 2018, Tokyo, Japan as an opportunity to realize again that TSC and genetic diseases are only a part of person, and not the person himself or herself.
We look forward to welcoming you in Tokyo.
