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Updated: Jan 21, 2026

The Use of Chemostats in Microbial Systems Biology
Published on: October 14, 2013
Assembling systems biology, embryo development and teratogenesis: What do we know so far and where to go next?
Thayne Woycinck Kowalski1, Ágata de Vargas Dupont2, Bruna Duarte Rengel3
1Post-Graduation Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, PPGBM, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Laboratory of Medical Genetics and Evolution, Genetics Department, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Laboratory of Genomic Medicine, Center of Experimental Research, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil; National Institute of Medical Population Genetics, INAGEMP, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Sistema Nacional de Informação sobre Agentes Teratogênicos, SIAT, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Abstract:
The recognition of molecular mechanisms of a teratogen can provide insights to understand its embryopathy, and later to plan strategies for the prevention of new exposures. In this context, experimental research is the most invested approach. Despite its relevance, these assays require financial and time investment. Hence, the evaluation of such mechanisms through systems biology rise as an alternative for this conventional methodology. Systems biology is an integrative field that connects experimental and computational analyses, assembling interaction networks between genes, proteins, and even teratogens. It is a valid strategy to generate new hypotheses, that can later be confirmed in experimental assays. Here, we present a literature review of the application of systems biology in embryo development and teratogenesis studies. We provide a glance at the data available in public databases, and evaluate common mechanisms between different teratogens. Finally, we discuss the advantages of using this strategy in future teratogenesis researches.
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