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Covers:
- An investigation of consciousness
- Microbiomes evolve with us
- How life keeps time
- An investigation of consciousness
- Microbiomes evolve with us
- How life keeps time
Biggest Breakthroughs in Biology and Neuroscience in 2023
- Thread starter jedishrfu
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- Consciousness Evolution Time
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Discussion Overview
The thread discusses significant breakthroughs in biology and neuroscience in 2023, exploring various topics such as consciousness, microbiomes, insulin production, and advancements in genetics. Participants share their perspectives on the implications of these developments and express varying levels of enthusiasm for the year's contributions to the field.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants mention an investigation of consciousness and the evolution of microbiomes as notable topics in biology this year.
- One participant expresses skepticism about the relevance of consciousness in biology, suggesting it may lead to unscientific ideas.
- A biotech startup, rBIO, is highlighted for its efforts to produce a biosimilar insulin using custom-made bacteria, claiming higher yields than current methods.
- Another participant discusses the revolutionary changes in molecular genetics and their implications for new therapies in medicine, suggesting a shift in understanding how genes function.
- There is a mention of a shift in cancer treatment strategies, with a focus on targeting genetic profiles rather than specific organ types.
- One participant expresses disappointment with the 2023 developments in biology, viewing them as a continuation of past trends rather than groundbreaking advancements.
- Concerns are raised about the ongoing climate crisis and its long-term impacts on ecosystems and species, indicating a broader context for the discussion of biological breakthroughs.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism regarding the breakthroughs discussed. While some highlight significant advancements, others feel that the developments are not particularly groundbreaking or are overshadowed by larger issues like the climate crisis. No consensus is reached on the overall impact of the year's contributions to biology.
Contextual Notes
Some claims about breakthroughs in genetics and cancer treatment are presented without detailed evidence or consensus, reflecting the ongoing nature of research and understanding in these areas. The discussion also touches on broader societal issues that may influence perceptions of scientific progress.
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Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing...
No biologists on PF?
Long time passing...
No biologists on PF?
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pinball1970
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jedishrfu said:
I have not got round to watching it but I will.
When I see "consciousness" in something relating to Biology, I always get the feeling some woo may be coming my way, so that first title probably delayed my watching.
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@Laroxe and @Ygggdrasil do you have any additional great breakthroughs for the year to list?
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Astronuc
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Laroxe
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My personal favourite would be in the effects of our changed understanding of genetics, idea around how genes work were not only wrong, they had become fossilised. The breakthroughs in molecular genetics are what has lead to an explosion of new therapies in medicine which has been described as a revolution, the new "biologic" approaches will lead to massive changes in our understanding of health and disease and we are only at the start of these changes.Greg Bernhardt said:
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Borg
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On that line, what I tell people when the topic comes up is that the drug companies used to target a specific type of cancer (lung, cervical, skin, etc.) but they have discovered that they often need to target cancers genetically instead. Drugs that didn't seem to work well in a particular organ, can work very well for a specific type of genetic profile.
Disclaimer: this is not my field of study, I just try to be informed as much as possible.
Disclaimer: this is not my field of study, I just try to be informed as much as possible.
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pinball1970
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BillTre
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Can't say I'm Too excited about 2023 developments in biology.
Nothing very earth shaking or surprising. I'm waiting for next year.
The new stuff seems like a continuation of developments from previous years.
The most significant thing to me is the continuing climate crisis. Although it is more appreciated now than before, its too late for easy fixes.
Our children will have to deal with the results of this decades long distraction put on by big industries. Many will die. Many species will go extinct. Ecosystems will be F*cked.
Interesting times!
Nothing very earth shaking or surprising. I'm waiting for next year.
The new stuff seems like a continuation of developments from previous years.
The most significant thing to me is the continuing climate crisis. Although it is more appreciated now than before, its too late for easy fixes.
Our children will have to deal with the results of this decades long distraction put on by big industries. Many will die. Many species will go extinct. Ecosystems will be F*cked.
Interesting times!