In this lecture, we will explore the development and evolution of tools used in biomedical research. We`ll begin with the invention of the microscope and discuss how this technology unlocked the microscopic world, allowing us to observe cells and microorganisms in detail for the first time. We will review the advancements from optical microscopes to electron microscopes, which have enabled more precise studies of biological samples.
The lecture will cover the discovery of the DNA double helix and how this groundbreaking finding transformed the field of biology. We will examine the evolution of gene sequencing technologies, from early methods to modern next-generation sequencing techniques, as well as the applications of CRISPR gene editing technology, which allows for precise gene modification and offers new possibilities for treating genetic disorders. Additionally, we will explore tools and techniques used in protein research, such as X-ray crystallography and mass spectrometry, which help us understand protein structures and functions.
We will also discuss research tools in neuroscience, including electrophysiological recording techniques, EEG (electroencephalography), and neuroimaging technologies like functional MRI (fMRI). These tools help us understand brain functions and activities, revealing the inner workings of human cognition.
Furthermore, we will review the role of animal models in biomedical research, from fruit flies to mice, and how these models are used to study human disease mechanisms and translate research findings into clinical applications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of new therapies.
The impact of high-throughput technologies on accelerating scientific research and drug development will also be covered, demonstrating how tasks that once took years can now be completed in a much shorter time. We will discuss the role of artificial intelligence and big data in biomedical fields, especially in disease diagnosis, prediction, and personalized treatment.
Overall, this lecture aims to enhance understanding of the evolution of biomedical research tools and their role in advancing science, while inspiring interest and curiosity in this exciting field.