Lecture 1 Flashcards
What is the main goal of systems biology?
To better understand the entirety of the processes that happen in a biological system
What is Genomics?
Study of the set of all proteins
What is Proteomics?
Study of the set of all proteins produced within a biological unit (can be an organ, organ system or an entire organism)
What is Metabolomics?
Study of metabolites within a given unit (ex. cell, tissue, organ, organism)
What are reasons to use isolated models?
-Molecules, cells, organs or tissues
-Control over experimental conditions
-Can elucidate mechanisms
What are reasons to use an integrated/whole body approach?
-Less control over variables
-Less mechanistic
-More applicable in the real world
What are antioxidants?
Molecules that protect against damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS) in your body.
What does ROS do?
They can cause harm in high levels in the body. They are linked to aging and multiple diseases.
What are the cons of taking antioxidants?
-A certain amount of ROS is necessary as it leads to apoptosis of damaged cells
-ROS are involved in adaptation and antioxidants may block mitochondrial adaptations (ex. excercise)
What are the benefits of taking antioxidants?
-Antioxidants can protect cell from damaging effects of oxidative damage.
Which approach is best for acute, simple diseases?
Reductionist
Which approach is best for chronic, complex diseases?
Systems oriented approach
