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Published on: July 28, 2018
From protoplasmic theory to cellular systems biology: a 150-year reflection.
G Rickey Welch1, James S Clegg
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA.
American Journal of Physiology. Cell Physiology
|March 5, 2010
Summary
The protoplasmic theory, not cell theory, historically drove cell biology research by focusing on holistic cell structure and function. This foundational concept remains relevant for modern cellular systems biology.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Systems Biology
- History of Science
Background:
- Modern cellular systems biology generates vast data, necessitating a historical perspective.
- Renewed interest in the holistic, system-level view of cell structure and function.
Observation:
- The origin of the "system" view of the cell traces back to the protoplasm concept.
- The protoplasmic theory, established in the 19th century, significantly influenced cell biology research.
- This theory emphasized the integrated structure-and-function of living cells, guiding early research.
Findings:
- The protoplasmic theory, rather than cell theory, was the primary 19th-century driver for studying cell structure-and-function.
- Research evolved through controversial issues, shaping the understanding of protoplasm into the 20th century.
- Current views integrate cytological organization into cellular activities, building on historical foundations.
Implications:
- The historical protoplasmic theory provides crucial context for contemporary cellular systems biology.
- Understanding the evolution of cell biology concepts is vital for interpreting large-scale data.
- The holistic approach of the protoplasmic theory informs modern systems-level investigations in cell biology.
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