From clinical trials to community: The science of translating diabetes and obesity research

Diabetes translation, and translation of any new biomedical or behavioral science, refers to the process through which new science is utilized to improve
the nation’s health. Translation occurs in two separate but sequential phases. Phase I Translation, usually dubbed “bench–to–bedside,” applies basic scientific discoveries to human healthcare under controlled conditions, i.e., clinical research. Phase II Translation promotes the adoption of the fruits of promising clinical research by community-based healthcare under uncontrolled and (often) uncontrollable conditions.

This document was prepared to assist investigators in either academic or community based organizations engaged in translational activities or translational research. In particular, this publication should be useful to applicants to either of the NIDDK announcements concerning translational research: “Translational Research for the Prevention and Control of Diabetes”, PA-02-053 (R18 mechanism), and “Planning Grants for Translational Research for the Prevention and Control of Diabetes,” PA-03-052 (R34 mechanism). All individuals interested in translational research funding opportunities should go to the NIDDK Web page for current initiatives and funding opportunities.