Central to the Network's ability to transition from laboratory research to clinical research and from clinical research to the community and public health practice is the implementation of translational research cluster (TRC) system. The clusters, embedded within cyber workspaces, link clinical, biomedical and behavioral researchers with providers and community leaders into novel geographic and ethnically diverse research partnerships aimed at improving patient health outcomes. The "brain-trust" of the Network, the TRC system generates new ideas for research collaborations and educational activities.

Clusters:

• Promote intellectual exchange

• Generate innovative inter- and multi-disciplinary research, and

• Facilitate the movement of scientific advances across the translational research spectrum