The recent emphasis in biomedical research on translational biology and personalized medicine is revolutionizing conceptual and experimental approaches to understanding and improving human health. Translational biology in medicine begins with an introduction to experimental model systems for disease, such as cell lines, primary cells, stem cells and animal models for disease, followed by a systematic description of genetic and genomic profiling and biomarker validation currently used in biomedical research. Examples of translation studies that have used these models and methods are presented, including studies in aging, tissue repair and chronic infection, each with an emphasis on how personalized medicine is transforming biomedicine. Bioethical considerations in translational study design and bioethical considerations in biomedical research are then covered, before concluding remarks, and a look towards the future of personalized medicine.<ul><li>Describes cellular and animal model systems used in translational research</li><li>Discusses the use of blood, genetic and genomic biomarkers for disease</li><li>Presents translational studies in aging, tissue repair and infectious disease biomedicine</li></ul>