Types of research

Fundamental (also known as basic) research involves curiosity and creativity. It aims to acquire new scientific knowledge without a specific economic or practical goal. Basic research seeks to understand phenomena and explain mechanisms. It is done in the laboratory with cellular or animal models.

Different pathologies are currently being studied, such as neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cerebral ischemia (ischemic stroke) epilepsy …), obesity, diabetes, cancer, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure. For type 2 diabetes, for example, studies are underway to understand the risk factors (e.g., being overweight) and the mechanisms responsible for its occurrence.

Applied research aims to solve specific problems of practical use. It is also done in the laboratory with cellular or animal models, but it aims to test something. It will use the knowledge obtained through basic research to develop new drugs, new treatments, or new technologies.

Example of a transition from basic to applied research

Many research projects are underway to better understand the mechanisms involved in insulin secretion. One thing, however, remains a mystery: the precise molecules that trigger this secretion. This is essential for the development of drugs for type 2 diabetes.

A team from the CHUM’s Research Centre has studied this issue. Through basic research, they discovered a molecule essential for the proper functioning of the beta cells, the cells of the pancreas responsible for insulin secretion: monoacylglycerol. Then, they discovered that the action of this molecule is blocked by another molecule called ABH6.

Through applied research, researchers are now trying to develop a drug targeting the ABH6 molecule. Their theory is that by inhibiting ABH6, the action of monoacylglycerol will no longer be blocked, thus encouraging insulin secretion by the beta cells.

Clinical research aims to develop or improve diagnoses, treatments, or prognoses. It is done on human beings and ensures that the personality and integrity of each participant is respected. It can be experimental (testing a new drug, a new program, or a new intervention) or observational (understanding a phenomenon, comparing methods, collecting data).

All clinical studies or trials on humans must meet very rigorous standards. Researchers must write a protocol that clearly defines the purpose of the project, the implications for the subjects, the benefits, the risks, etc. This protocol is then carefully studied by an external ethics committee whose role is to ensure the safety, protection, and well-being of participants.

The differents phases of a clinical research

All clinical trials must follow the same phases. For example, to test a new drug already developed and tested in animals:

Phase 1: In a small group of 15 to 30 participants, Phase 1 will determine the safety of the product. Could the drug be harmful to humans?

Phase 2: Phase 2 consists of finding the ideal dose; i.e., the most effective dose with the fewest side effects.

Phase 3: In Phase 3, the number of participants can increase to several thousand. The drug will be compared with the standard treatment in terms of its efficacy, safety, and risk-benefit ratio. If the results are convincing, an application to authorize its sale may be made to Health Canada.

Phase 4: Once the product is approved by the Health Products and Food Branch (HPFB) of Health Canada and is commercially available, a long-term follow-up is done to screen for additional side effects or benefits.