1. Human Genome Project: This groundbreaking project which ran from 1990 to 2003 sequenced and mapped out the entirety of the human genetic code. It has opened the gates to personalized medicine tailored to an individual’s specific genetic makeup.
2. CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing: CRISPR-Cas9 technology allows scientists to make precise changes to the genome of living cells. This technology has enormous potential to cure genetic diseases and prevent them from being passed on to offspring.
3. Antibiotics: Alexander Fleming’s discovery of Penicillin in 1928, made modern antibiotics possible. Antibiotics have saved countless lives and enabled modern surgery by controlling infections.
4. Vaccines: Vaccines generate immunity to viruses, and bacteria and have eradicated smallpox, and polio to an almost insignificant level.
5. Personalized medicine: Personalized medicine uses genomic data to prescribe the most effective treatment for an individual. This approach can be more effective and results in fewer side effects than the one-size-fits-all approach.
6. Digital health: Wearable smart devices, mobile applications, and remote connectivity have revolutionized the way patients manage their health, and physicians provide care.
7. Stem cell therapy: Stem cells can differentiate into any cells in the body, making them ideal for tissue repair or regeneration. This approach is being tested to repair brain tissue, skin, heart tissue, and other medical conditions.
8. Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology-based medical products take advantage of the unique properties of nanoparticles – their size, shape, and surface area to volume ratio for targeted drug delivery or removed toxins.
9. Human Microbiome: Human microbiome research investigates the microorganisms living in the human body and their interaction with each other and their hosts. It provides insight into many health issues from depression to obesity.
10. Artificial intelligence (AI): Machine learning algorithms can identify disease patterns, predict health outcomes, and inform precision medicine. AI algorithms can also help optimize the surgery procedure and support healthcare workers in making critical decisions.
