I think you might mean "translational research". Here are some synonyms and their analyses:
1. Translational science
- Meaning: "Translational science" is very closely related to "translational research". It encompasses the entire scientific process that aims to translate findings from basic research (such as in the laboratory) into practical applications that can benefit patients, industries, or society at large. For example, in the medical field, translational science involves taking knowledge about how a particular gene functions at a cellular level (basic research) and using it to develop new drugs or therapies (applied or practical outcomes). In essence, it's a broader term that includes the principles, methodologies, and activities of translational research.
- Example: "The institute is investing a lot in translational science to bridge the gap between bench and bedside."
2. Applied research (in a related context)
- Meaning: "Applied research" focuses on using existing scientific knowledge to solve practical problems. While translational research specifically emphasizes the translation of basic research findings into real-world applications, applied research generally starts with a practical problem in mind and then looks for ways to solve it using scientific methods. For example, if a company wants to improve the durability of its products, it conducts applied research to find materials and manufacturing processes that will achieve that goal. In the context of translational research, applied research is an important part of the process when it comes to implementing the insights gained from basic research in a practical setting.
- Example: "The team carried out applied research to develop a more energy-efficient heating system based on the latest thermodynamic principles."
3. Bench-to-bedside research
- Meaning: This term is particularly common in the medical and healthcare domain. It vividly describes the journey that research findings take from the laboratory bench (where basic experiments are conducted) to the patient's bedside (where the practical application in the form of diagnosis, treatment, or prevention is implemented). For example, a scientist discovers a new molecule that has potential anti-cancer properties in the lab (bench work). Then, through a series of clinical trials and further investigations, that molecule is developed into a new drug that is used to treat cancer patients (bedside application). It's a more specific and descriptive way of expressing the core idea of translational research in the medical context.
- Example: "The success of bench-to-bedside research has led to many breakthroughs in treating rare diseases."
4. Translational medicine
- Meaning: "Translational medicine" is often used interchangeably with "translational research" in the healthcare arena. It specifically refers to the discipline that aims to accelerate the movement of discoveries in basic medical science into clinical practice and, ultimately, improve human health. It involves aspects like drug development, biomarker identification, and the design of clinical trials. For example, translational medicine might focus on using genetic markers identified in basic research to predict which patients will respond best to a particular treatment.
- Example: "The conference on translational medicine brought together researchers and clinicians to discuss the latest strategies for getting new therapies to patients faster."