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Characterization of Complex Systems Using the Design of Experiments Approach: Transient Protein Expression in Tobacco as a Case Study
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Models for the study of whole systems.
1Department of Family, Program in Integrative Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA. ibell@u.arizona.edu
Integrative Cancer Therapies
|November 15, 2006
Summary
Network and complex systems science offers a new model for understanding complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). This approach aligns with CAM
Area of Science:
- Network science
- Complex systems science
- Systems biology
Background:
- Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) uses holistic, whole-system approaches.
- Conventional biomedicine often employs reductionistic, mechanistic models.
- CAM's global effects contrast with drug-specific actions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a network and complex systems science model for CAM research.
- To align complex systems concepts with CAM's holistic perspective.
- To bridge CAM and conventional medicine through shared conceptual models.
Main Methods:
- Applying network and complex systems theories to CAM.
- Utilizing concepts like attractor patterns and emergent behaviors.
- Comparing complex systems models with reductionistic approaches.
Main Results:
- Complex systems science can explain mixed findings in homeopathy research.
- Holistic CAM approaches produce global shifts in patient subsystems.
- Network science offers a framework for understanding patient outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Complex systems science provides a suitable framework for whole systems CAM research.
- This approach can improve understanding of patient outcomes and triage.
- It facilitates integration between CAM and conventional medicine, particularly in cancer research.
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