Clinical Translation, Ethics, and Policy
Many representations of clinical translation present it as a linear process by which bench discoveries are advanced into clinical practice. The present chapter offers a conceptual framework that highlights distinctive ethical aspects of clinical translation. The framework understands clinical translation as a process not so much as developing new treatments but rather generating evidence on how to use (and how not to use) new as well as old interventions. It also emphasizes attending to the relationship of different studies with each other and the importance of coordinating different studies with each other. The model presented here foregrounds the role of coordination in realizing societal objectives of clinical translation at minimal burden and cost for patients and study volunteers.