Mapping the evolving definitions of translational research

Abstract

ObjectiveSystematic review and analysis of definitions of translational research.Materials and methodsThe final corpus was comprised of 33 papers, each read by at least 2 reviewers. Definitions were mapped to a common set of research processes for presentation and analysis. Influence of papers and definitions was further evaluated using citation analysis and agglomerative clustering.ResultsAll definitions were mapped to common research processes, revealing most common labels for each process. Agglomerative clustering revealed 3 broad families of definitions. Citation analysis showed that the originating paper of each family has been cited ~10 times more than any other member.DiscussionAlthough there is little agreement between definitions, we were able to identify an emerging consensus 5-phase (T0–T4) definition for translational research. T1 involves processes that bring ideas from basic research through early testing in humans. T2 involves the establishment of effectiveness in humans and clinical guidelines. T3 primarily focuses on implementation and dissemination research while T4 focuses on outcomes and effectiveness in populations. T0 involves research such as genome-wide association studies which wrap back around to basic research.ConclusionWe used systematic review and analysis to identify emerging consensus between definitions of translational research phases.

Identifying translational science through embeddings of controlled vocabularies

“…A related note is about the definitions of basic, translational, and applied research. On one hand, not only the definition of translational science has been evolving [33], but also consensus definitions of basic/applied research have not been reached. Basic research has been defined as, among others, fundamental, curiosity-driven research that leads to scientific discoveries [34], or use-inspired research (e.g., disease-orientated) [32,35].…”

Reducing Cardiovascular Disparities Through Community-Engaged Implementation Research

“…This engagement of stakeholders is necessary to ensure that the implementation research undertaken is relevant and meaningful in the local community. 77 Several approaches to engaging these strategic partners can help align the mission and goals of implementation research to eliminate CVD disparities. Health maintenance organizations, accountable care organizations, and practice-based research networks are models for linking diverse medical clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies across large geographic areas to test, implement, and disseminate locally relevant, meaningful messages and programs to improve CVD care.…”

President's message—Presenting an SNRS consensus statement on the language of research

“…The definition of translational research is evolving, but is broadly defined as research that takes discovery from the bench, to the bedside and back again (Fort, Herr, Shaw, Gutzman & Starren, 2017).…”

“…T4 focuses on outcomes and effectiveness in populations. T0 involves research such as genome-wide association studies, or whole genome association studies (Fort et al, 2017).…”