Model Systems in Biology
History, Philosophy, and Practical Concerns
By Georg Striedter | Publisher: MIT Press
About the book
How biomedical research using various animal species and in vitro cellular systems has resulted in both major successes and translational failure.
In Model Systems in Biology, comparative neurobiologist Georg Striedter examines how biomedical researchers have used animal species and in vitro cellular systems to understand and develop treatments for human diseases ranging from cancer and polio to Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Although there have been some major successes, much of this “translational” research on model systems has failed to generalize to humans. Striedter explores the history of such research, focusing on the models used and considering the question of model selection from a variety of perspectives—the philosophical, the historical, and that of practicing biologists.
Striedter reviews some philosophical concepts and ethical issues, including concerns over animal suffering and the compromises that result. He traces the history of the most widely used animal and in vitro models, describing how they compete with one another in a changing ecosystem of models. He examines how therapies for bacterial and viral infections, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders have been developed using animal and cell culture models—and how research into these diseases has both taken advantage of and been hindered by model system differences. Finally, Striedter argues for a “big tent” biology, in which a diverse set of models and research strategies can coexist productively.
Editions of Model Systems in Biology
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780262046947
- EBook
- ISBN 9780262370028
- EBook
- ISBN 9780262370035
Read an Excerpt
How biomedical research using various animal species and in vitro cellular systems has resulted in both major successes and translational failure.
In Model Systems in Biology, comparative neurobiologist Georg Striedter examines how biomedical researchers have used animal species and in vitro cellular systems to understand and develop treatments for human diseases ranging from cancer and polio to Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Although there have been some major successes, much of this “translational” research on model systems has failed to generalize to humans. Striedter explores the history of such research, focusing on the models used and considering the question of model selection from a variety of perspectives—the philosophical, the historical, and that of practicing biologists.
Striedter reviews some philosophical concepts and ethical issues, including concerns over animal suffering and the compromises that result. He traces the history of the most widely used animal and in vitro models, describing how they compete with one another in a changing ecosystem of models. He examines how therapies for bacterial and viral infections, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders have been developed using animal and cell culture models—and how research into these diseases has both taken advantage of and been hindered by model system differences. Finally, Striedter argues for a “big tent” biology, in which a diverse set of models and research strategies can coexist productively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Model Systems in Biology about?
How biomedical research using various animal species and in vitro cellular systems has resulted in both major successes and translational failure.
In Model Systems in Biology, comparative neurobiologist Georg Striedter examines how biomedical researchers have used animal species and in vitro cellular systems to understand and develop treatments for human diseases ranging from cancer and polio to Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Although there have been some major successes, much of this “translational” research on model systems has failed to generalize to humans. Striedter explores the history of such research, focusing on the models used and considering the question of model selection from a variety of perspectives—the philosophical, the historical, and that of practicing biologists.
Striedter reviews some philosophical concepts and ethical issues, including concerns over animal suffering and the compromises that result. He traces the history of the most widely used animal and in vitro models, describing how they compete with one another in a changing ecosystem of models. He examines how therapies for bacterial and viral infections, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders have been developed using animal and cell culture models—and how research into these diseases has both taken advantage of and been hindered by model system differences. Finally, Striedter argues for a “big tent” biology, in which a diverse set of models and research strategies can coexist productively.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Model Systems in Biology?
Mathematics and Science > Biology, life sciences
Where can I read a sample of Model Systems in Biology?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780262046947
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Model Systems in Biology?
Georg Striedter
Who is the Publisher of the book Model Systems in Biology?
MIT Press
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Model Systems in Biology is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780262046947) and ebook(ISBN 9780262370028) and ebook(ISBN 9780262370035)
Where can I buy Model Systems in Biology online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Model Systems in Biology from below
Where can I buy Model Systems in Biology?