Has the time come for preprints in biology?

Area of Science:

• Life Sciences
• Biological Research
• Biomedical Research

Background:

• Preprints, non-peer-reviewed manuscript drafts, have been utilized in physical sciences for nearly 25 years.
• There is growing interest in applying preprints to biological and biomedical research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the potential role of preprints in disseminating life sciences research findings.
• To explore both the excitement and concerns surrounding preprint adoption in biology and biomedicine.

Main Methods:

• This is a commentary discussing the use of preprints.
• No specific experimental methods were employed.

Main Results:

• The discussion covers the potential advantages of preprints for rapid research dissemination.
• Concerns regarding the implications of non-peer-reviewed research in life sciences are also addressed.

Conclusions:

• Preprints offer a potential avenue for faster sharing of research in the life sciences.
• Careful consideration of both benefits and challenges is necessary for integrating preprints into biological and biomedical research workflows.