The translational research chain: Is it delivering the goods?

Purpose: To address whether the translational research chain has influenced clinical practice in radiation oncology. Methods and Materials: Merits and limitations of the various steps of the t ranslational chain, i.e., ill vitro studies, anf mal experiments, biomather natical modeling, Phase I and II trials, and randomized Phase III trials ar e briefly reviewed. The process and value of translational research in radi ation oncology are addressed using dose fractionation and the time factor i n tumors as examples. Results: The examples show that translational research may indeed change cl inical practice in radiation oncology. However, it takes several decades an d considerable efforts to define and test new strategies. The "translationa l process" is by no means unidirectional but a continuing multiway dialog a mong basic scientists, applied scientists, clinical scientists, and clinica l oncologists, Conclusion: Translational research works in radiation oncology, and it is d ifficult to conceive a better alternative for future improvement of therapy . The slow speed of the translational process indicates that there is a nee d for improving the various steps of the translational network and the inte raction as a whole, Massive investments in one part of the network are like ly to be at least partly wasted unless the other links are strengthened as well. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc.