Translational science: past, present, and future

Area of Science:

• Drug Discovery and Development
• Translational Science
• Biomarker Research

Background:

• The concept of translational science has existed for over 15 years.
• Recent focus identifies translational science as a funding category to enhance academic participation in drug development.
• The goal is to shorten and increase the efficiency of the pharmaceutical research and development (R&D) process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical development of pharmaceutical R&D.
• To examine the role, techniques, and business environment of translational science.
• To assess the impact of translational science on bridging the gap between preclinical and clinical research ('from bench to bedside').

Main Methods:

• Historical review of pharmaceutical R&D processes.
• Analysis of translational science's position within drug development.
• Consideration of scientific techniques and business factors relevant to translational science.

Main Results:

• Translational science complements, rather than replaces, preclinical development.
• It is expected to stimulate biomarker research within academic and business communities.
• A modest increase in early clinical testing and academic commercialization is anticipated.

Conclusions:

• Translational science is crucial for expediting the transition from preclinical findings to clinical application.
• Its impact on improving the overall quality and efficiency of the drug development process requires further observation.
• The approach holds promise for enhancing academic contributions to medicine.