The future of translational biomedical research at Nazarbayev University

Abstract

The ultimate goal of fundamental biomedical research is to decipher mechanisms underlying the impairment of molecules, cells, tissues, and organs and subsequent dysfunction of the whole human body. Knowledge of these mechanisms helps discover and develop new approaches in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of various diseases. Translational biomedical research enables the application of basic scientific discoveries to diagnostics, patient care and clinical practice. Thus, translational biomedical research is a link between fundamental research, clinical research and clinical practice. Transfer of discoveries from the bench to the bedside is a very complex and time consuming process that includes pre-clinical studies and several phases of clinical trials, along with the development of clinical guidelines and protocols, and the eventual implementation of best clinical practices.