Translational research: the changing landscape of drug discovery

Abstract

Drug discovery represents the first step in the creation of new drugs, and takes place in academic institutions, biotech companies, and large pharmaceutical corporations. Until recently, these sectors have each operated independently with little collaboration between those at the forefront of discovery research and those with experience in developing drugs. With the rise of translational research these relationships are shifting and new hubs are emerging, as key players seek to pool the expertise necessary to generate new therapies by linking laboratory discoveries directly to unmet clinical needs. In this article I discuss how the increasing adoption of translational research is leading to novel integrated discovery nexuses that may change the landscape of drug discovery.