Lost in translation: why genomic breakthroughs are not reaching patients

Despite revolutionary advances in genomic technologies, a persistent disconnect exists between research discoveries and clinical implementation. This translational gap stems from misaligned incentive and funding structures: researchers prioritise publications over clinical uptake, with funding ending at proof-of-concept; clinicians face time constraints and integration challenges; regulators struggle with rapidly evolving technologies and genomics-specific complexities including variant classification and data governance. We propose that dedicated translational medicine centres are essential to bridge this divide. These centres require multidisciplinary teams spanning clinician-scientists, regulatory affairs specialists, health economists, biostatisticians and bioinformaticians, providing end-to-end support from feasibility assessment through to regulatory approval. Success requires government investment, explicit health equity assessments and measuring achievement through clinical uptake rather than traditional academic metrics.