Target based approaches to biology: terrible science?

In summary, the conversation discusses the effectiveness of mechanistic science and molecular biological targeting in the development of therapies. While the FDA does not require a detailed mechanism for approval, a mechanistic understanding can aid in directing guesses for successful treatments. Two examples are given, one involving the discovery of the need for salt and glucose in rehydration and another involving the use of deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease. The conversation also mentions the failure of some target-based approaches and the importance of basic research in guiding successful therapies.
  • #1
gravenewworld
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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1359644612003674


I couldn't agree more with that article. The FDA doesn't actually require a mechanism to be explained for a therapy, as long as you say what X does and it does what you say, then you can gain approval for use.

Whatever happened to science like we did back in the old days, where discoveries were made using a phenotypic approach? Has mechanistic science and molecular biological targeting been an utter failure?
 
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  • #2
Every target based approach ultimately depends on guesswork, because of the tremendous complexity of the human body. However, a mechanistic understanding can help direct our guesses.

For example, it's said that http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21739/. A mechanistic understanding helped us understand why drinking water alone did not help rehydration, but needed salt and glucose.

Another example are the angiogenesis inhibitors that eventually made it to the clinic from basic research. "Angiostatin and a companion agent also identified by Folkman's laboratory, endostatin, were licensed by a biotech company called EntreMed. And EntreMed never made a dime off either drug. The two drugs failed to show any clinical effects in both Phase 1 and Phase 2. Avastin was a completely different anti-angiogenesis agent, discovered and developed by another team entirely, and brought to market a decade after O'Reilly's experiment. What's more, Avastin's colorectal-cancer trial—the one that received a standing ovation at ASCO—was the drug's second go-around. A previous Phase 3 trial, for breast cancer, had been a crushing failure. Even Folkman's beautifully elaborated theory about angiogenesis may not fully explain the way Avastin works."

Another example where basic research and very good luck was required is http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/deep_brain_stimulation/deep_brain_stimulation.htm for Parkinson's. The therapy was arrived at by a theory from basic research. The final version of the therapy is believed to work for reasons other than those originally envisaged from basic research, so basic research was not enough. However, I do not believe we would have known where to poke for good luck without the basic research.
 
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1. What are target based approaches to biology?

Target based approaches to biology involve identifying specific molecules or pathways within a biological system that can be targeted for therapeutic purposes. This can include identifying specific proteins, genes, or cellular processes that play a role in a disease or disorder.

2. How do target based approaches differ from other methods in biology?

Target based approaches differ from other methods in biology, such as phenotypic screening, in that they focus on identifying specific molecular targets rather than looking at the overall effects of a drug or treatment on a biological system. This allows for more targeted and precise treatments for diseases.

3. What are the benefits of using target based approaches in biology?

Target based approaches offer several benefits, including the ability to identify and develop drugs that specifically target the underlying cause of a disease or disorder, leading to more effective treatments with fewer side effects. They also allow for a better understanding of the biological processes involved in diseases.

4. What are some challenges associated with target based approaches in biology?

One of the main challenges of target based approaches is identifying the correct target to focus on. This requires a deep understanding of the biological system and the disease process. There is also the risk of developing drugs that only target one specific target, which may not be enough to effectively treat a complex disease.

5. Are target based approaches the best method for studying and treating diseases?

Target based approaches are just one method in the field of biology and may not be the best option for every disease. Some diseases may require a combination of approaches, while others may be better studied and treated using other methods, such as phenotypic screening. It is important for scientists to use a variety of methods in order to fully understand and effectively treat diseases.

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