Conceptualising molecular psychiatry and translational psychiatry

Abstract

The terms “molecular psychiatry” and “translational psychiatry” are frequently used key words of today's scientific community. However, the exact meaning of these terms remains surprisingly unclear. They also seem to be interpreted in different ways by different authors. Here, we first analyse how the terms have emerged historically and then try to indicate how meaningful and widely acceptable definitions could be achieved. Clearly, with the further development of these emerging psychiatric research areas, it will be necessary to regularly adjust these definitions accordingly.

Key words::

• history
• neuroscience
• philosophy of science
• psychiatric research
• psychopharmacology

Acknowledgements

None.

Statement of Interest

None.