Translational Research Can Work: Tyrolean Cancer Research Center Brings Companies and Researchers Closer Together

摘要

Basic research focuses on many issues that are important for human health. However, despite of permanent scientific progress only a few innovative drugs actually reach the patient. Oncotyrol, the Center for personalized cancer medicine in Innsbruck, has developed an appropriate strategy in order to improve the rate at which research is implemented. Equitable distribution of intellectual property rights and risk minimization for the companies are the key factors. The distribution of tasks between the state and the private sector in healthcare evolved on a historical basis. The state is positioned at the beginning and the end of the chain as it is in charge of the university-related basic research as well as the efficient patient care. The development, production and commercialization of drugs and medical products by the private sector is encompassed within these two points. Unfortunately research results are not always transferred in an optimal way from the industrial sector to medical practice. Therefore translational research, i.e. basic research, which is focused on concrete economic benefits, is increasingly promoted by the state.