Strategies for Derisking Translational Processes for Biomedical Technologies

Inefficient translational processes for technology-oriented biomedical research have led to some prominent and frequent failures in the development of many leading drug candidates, several designated investigational drugs, and some medical devices, as well as documented patient harm and postmarket product withdrawals. Derisking this process, particularly in the early stages, should increase translational efficiency and streamline resource utilization, especially in an academic setting. In this opinion article, we identify a 12-step guideline for reducing risks typically associated with translating medical technologies as they move toward prototypes, preclinical proof of concept, and possible clinical testing. Integrating the described 12-step process should prove valuable for improving how early-stage academic biomedical concepts are cultivated, culled, and manicured toward intended clinical applications.