Lessons from Toxicology: Developing a 21st-Century Paradigm for Medical Research

Conclusions Our proposed new research paradigm, adapted from 21st-century toxicology, would involve the following aspects: Developing a big picture of human diseases, integrating extrinsic and intrinsic causes, and linking environmental sciences with medical research using systems biology. Introducing a disease AOP concept, analogous to toxicity AOPs, with the intention of providing a unified framework for describing relevant pathophysiology pathways and networks across multiple biological levels. Creating a strong focus on advanced human-specific research (in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo, and in silico) in place of empirical, animal-based studies. To accomplish the goals outlined in this article, many questions will need to be considered: To what extent can existing and emerging human models and tools be applied to replace animal studies? Where are the knowledge and technology gaps? How can big data be synthesized into actionable knowledge? Can computational models effectively bridge the in vitro–in vivo divide? How easy will it be to optimize the derivation of enriched populations of disease-relevant cells from human-induced pluripotent stem cells? In summary, a new coherent roadmap for medical research promises progress in several areas: Revealing common disease pathways. Discovering new and multiple human drug targets. Improving translation. Reducing late-stage drug attrition. Facilitating drug repurposing. Contributing to the development of personalized medicine. Achie...
Source: EHP Research - Category: Environmental Health Authors: Tags: Brief Communication November 2015 Source Type: research