Invited Editorial: Current Impediments to Successful Translational Research in Stroke

Abstract

Wikipedia offers the following, quite apposite definition of translational research: “Translational research is a way of thinking about and conducting scientific research to make the results of research applicable to the population under study... In the field of medicine, for example, it is used to translate the findings in basic research more quickly and efficiently into medical practice and, thus, meaningful health outcomes ...” [1]. While the potential benefits of the translational approach are self-evident, and notwithstanding the frequent homage paid to the concept (for example, the founding of this journal), one cannot help being concerned by a variety of current structural impediments that, unless attended to and remedied, threaten to diminish future prospects for real success in translational stroke research. In his 2005 Thomas Willis Lecture [2], Vladimir Hachinski captures the essence of the translational challenge with characteristic eloquence: “Advances in stroke are occurring at an unprecedented pace, but often in disciplinary isolation and without optimal mechanisms for systematically translating, integrating and applying the findings. Knowledge accrues in pieces, but is understood in patterns [italics mine]. To optimize knowledge acquisition and application, infrastructures and systems need to be set up along with appealing incentives. The approach needs to be transdisciplinary, going beyond the bounds of any given discipline, reciprocally translational, and transactional, meaning that the interchanges have to yield previously agreed benefits to the parties (The Triple T Approach). A new breed of leaders needs to be developed and nurtured to catalyze the process.... Systematically integrating what we know and evaluating what we do could spur progress. Research is not only an activity but an attitude... No system can replace the individual initiative, creativity and insights that lead to the great discoveries, but progress is not made by breakthroughs alone. No one's work is so exalted that it cannot be improved, nor so humble that it has no value. We can all make a difference” [2]. What, then, are some remediable factors hindering translational stroke research? In my opinion, there are several: