Medical Are there theories of medicine that are under the umbrella of Physical Sciences?

  • Thread starter Thread starter robotkid786
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion explores the intersection of physics and medicine, highlighting significant theories and technologies that have emerged from this relationship. Key examples include the foundational work of Watson and Crick on DNA, which was influenced by molecular physics, and Schrödinger's 1943 book "What is Life," which applies physics principles to biological processes. Additionally, the discussion mentions the role of diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, X-rays, MRI, and radiotherapy, all of which utilize physics concepts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of biophysics in understanding genetic mutations and their effects on the central nervous system (CNS).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of molecular biology, particularly DNA structure and function.
  • Familiarity with diagnostic imaging technologies like MRI and X-ray.
  • Basic knowledge of biophysics and its applications in medicine.
  • Awareness of genetic mutation mechanisms and their implications for health.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of biophysics and its role in computational biology.
  • Explore the applications of electrochemistry in kidney and neuron physiology.
  • Study the impact of Schrödinger's "What is Life" on modern biological theories.
  • Investigate the latest advancements in medical imaging technologies and their physics foundations.
USEFUL FOR

Researchers, medical professionals, and students interested in the integration of physics and biology, particularly those focusing on genetics, diagnostic medicine, and biophysics.

robotkid786
Messages
36
Reaction score
10
TL;DR
Are there theories of medicine that are under the umbrella of Physical Sciences
I have an interest in cosmology but I’m also super interested in genetics. The nature of genetic mutation and effects on the CNS medically especially.

Do you guys know any famous medical theories that have developed with a start in physics that have becoming accepted in Biology/Medicine?

I’m just curious. I actually tried to contact the Crick Institute (London) about research in genetics with a physics foundation but they said they weren’t offering any non paid studentships in the field so I assumed it wasn’t a reality.
 
Biology news on Phys.org
robotkid786 said:
TL;DR Summary: Are there theories of medicine that are under the umbrella of Physical Sciences

I have an interest in cosmology but I’m also super interested in genetics. The nature of genetic mutation and effects on the CNS medically especially.
This is very broad question. A huge amount is known about genetics, mutation and disease for example.

With respect to physics, Clinical and diagnostic medicine springs to mind, ultrasound, X ray, MRI, Radiotherapy, laser surgery.

Huge amount of cross over and technology taken from physics principles (and Chemistry, genetics, pharmacology, etc etc)
 
  • Like
Likes robotkid786
Some old ones:
  1. Much of Watson's and Crick's breakthrough with DNA was based upon the physics of the molecule (1953).
  2. Schrödinger's Book "What is Life" (1943?) takes a very physics based approach to living processes.
  3. Electrochemistry (kidney and neuron membrane physiology) has a lot to do with physics.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
  • Informative
Likes pinball1970, robotkid786 and berkeman
Love it guys, thank you!!
 
  • Like
Likes BillTre and berkeman
robotkid786 said:
Love it guys, thank you!!
One last thing.

Radionuclides, I will let you do the deep dive.
 
  • Like
Likes robotkid786 and BillTre
Harvey, the circulation of the blood. The physics of pressure and flow.
 
  • Like
Likes BillTre, robotkid786 and pinball1970
Many biophysics departments do research in the field of computational biology (i.e. bioinformatics). Researchers are often more focused on things like molecular biology (e.g., RNA biology) and hardly clinical, but it's a good way to start exploring your interests.
 
  • Like
Likes pinball1970, BillTre and robotkid786

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
8K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K