Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026
In Vivo Modeling of the Morbid Human Genome using Danio rerio
Published on: August 24, 2013
Dissecting complex disease: the quest for the Philosopher's Stone?
Anne V Buchanan1, Kenneth M Weiss, Stephanie M Fullerton
1Department of Anthropology, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
Abstract:
Is the search for the causes of complex disease akin to the alchemist's vain quest for the Philosopher's Stone? Complex chronic diseases have tremendous public health impact in the industrialized world. Much effort has been expended on research into their causes, with the aim of predicting who will be affected or preventing effects before they arise, but progress has been halting at best. In this paper, we discuss possible reasons including the use of models and methods that fit point-source and Mendelian diseases but may not be as appropriate for complex diseases, reliance on causal criteria that may not be as relevant as they are for communicable diseases, and the biology of complex disease itself. Finally, we ask whether most complex diseases are even good candidates for the kind of prediction and prevention that we have come to expect based on experience with infectious and Mendelian disease.
Insights
Research into complex chronic diseases faces challenges due to unsuitable models and criteria. Current approaches may not align with the unique biology of these conditions, hindering prediction and prevention efforts.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Complex chronic diseases significantly impact public health globally.
- Despite extensive research, understanding the causes of these diseases remains challenging.
- Current progress in predicting and preventing complex diseases has been limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the reasons behind the slow progress in complex disease research.
- To evaluate the suitability of existing research models and causal criteria for complex diseases.
- To question the applicability of traditional prediction and prevention paradigms to complex diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review and discussion of current research models and methodologies.
- Analysis of causal criteria used in disease research.
- Examination of the inherent biological characteristics of complex diseases.
Main Results:
- Existing models and methods, often designed for Mendelian or point-source diseases, may be inappropriate for complex diseases.
- Causal criteria relevant for infectious diseases may not be optimal for complex chronic conditions.
- The inherent biology of complex diseases presents unique challenges to research.
Conclusions:
- The search for causes of complex diseases requires novel approaches.
- Current prediction and prevention strategies may need re-evaluation for complex diseases.
- Complex diseases may not be amenable to the same level of prediction and prevention seen with infectious or Mendelian diseases.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Pharmacogenomics: Identification of New Drug Targets
02:02Genomics
01:33Pleiotropy