Translational Research Unit opens at Papworth
The newly-formed Translational Research Unit, under the direction of Dr David Grainger, opened its doors in temporary accomodation at Papworth Hospital NHS Trust on 10th November 2003
The Translational Research Unit (TRU) has been set up as a joint initiative between Papworth Hospital NHS Trust and Cambridge University with the aim of translating basic medical research findings into improved technologies which benefit patients. Its mission is to exploit high quality basic scientific research, both within Cambridge University and from elsewhere, to improve the clinical management of patients with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
The Unit will be directed by Dr David Grainger, the principal investigator of the Inflammation Research and Therapy Laboratory. The first translational projects in the newly set up unit are based on research performed in the IRTL. In particular, the MaGiCAD study, which is designed to translate our pilot observations on the application of metabolic profiling to diagnosing heart disease, will form a centrepiece of TRU activities.
A number of workers currently in the IRTL will transfer to the TRU, including Dr David Mosedale, the chairman of the MaGiCAD management committee. David will be based full time in the TRU at Papworth Hospital from December 2003, as a principal investigator at the TRU. Dr Jill Reckless will act as Research Co-ordinator for the TRU.
Initially, the TRU is accomodated in various temporary offices around the Papworth Hospital site. However, the Unit will move into 260 square metres of newly refurbished dedicated space in 2004 which will provide office and laboratory facilities, central blood and DNA preparation services as well as a large seminar room. Once in its new home, the TRU will accomodate up to 25 staff members.
Once established, we expect the TRU to grow rapidly during 2004 and to begin a range of new projects. The TRU represents one of the few dedicated units aiming to translate basic research in cardiovascular medicine into real benefits for patients. This translational approach has been very successful in cancer research in particular, and we very much hope that by forming a dedicated unit we can bring similar benefits to sufferers of heart disease in the years to come.
Related links:
Over the coming months, the TRU will establish its own dedicated website. At present, however, if you require further information about the TRU please contact the Research Co-ordinator, Dr. Jill Reckless.
Papworth Hospital NHS Trust is one of the leading providers of cardiothoracic services in the UK, combining the high quality clinical services of a three star trust with teaching and research.
The British Heart Foundation is the leading supporter of research into the cardiovascular system in the UK.
More details of the MaGiCAD Study are available here.