Translational Science at the Undergraduate Level: Awakening Talents to Overcome the Valley of Death – Viewpoint Showing a Success Case (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND Background: Translational science is the process of applying basic scientific knowledge with the goal of developing clinical research by creating new medicines, devices, medical procedures, preventative measures, and diagnostic kits. These actions are known as moving “from bench to bedside.” The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted a shortage of translational research professionals prepared to respond immediately to global demands. To achieve these advancements, investigators must overcome the challenging phase of clinical investigation commonly referred to as the “valley of death”. Conversely, The Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), from São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil, has built a robust “knowledge industry” focused on translational science. CEVAP offers specialized programs in diagnostic and therapeutic innovations (lato sensu) and well as graduate professional program (stricto sensu) at master's and doctoral levels. As part of its research and innovation efforts, CEVAP has developed two biopharmaceuticals, named fibrin sealant and apilic antivenom, which are currently in the final stage of development. OBJECTIVE The objectives of this project were to assess interest and begin preparing professionals from undergraduate students for the topic of translational science. METHODS In 2024, CEVAP began the first Brazilian Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) for developing and producing clinical trial material derived from Brazilian biodiversity. The optional undergraduate Course in Translational Science represents the final stage in the development of the “knowledge industry” and was offered to students at the three public universities in São Paulo state (USP, UNESP and UNICAMP). This course, developed in partnership with the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Oxford and the Oxford Research Group LATAM, aims to awaken talent assess students’ interest in this subject. The large number of applications demonstrated the interest of students in pursuing this modern perspective of the pharmaceutical research. RESULTS - CONCLUSIONS From this point forward, the project will evolve into a “Qualification in Translational Science” which must last at least one year and will be offered to students already enrolled in any of the courses at any of the São Paulo university courses. The preparation of these professionals will be strategic to save lives and combat future epidemics or pandemics that will emerge worldwide. CLINICALTRIAL -