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Serendipitous Discoveries in Biomedical Sciences (Revisited)
1Biology Department, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA. ylee7@jh.edu.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|March 31, 2026
Summary
Serendipity in science involves unexpected discoveries. This chapter explores key biomedical breakthroughs, including induced pluripotent stem cells, and discusses strategies for fostering serendipitous scientific findings.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Sciences
- Glycoscience
- Scientific Discovery
Background:
- Serendipity, or discovering valuable outcomes unexpectedly, is crucial in scientific advancement.
- Previous work (MICC-3, 2011) highlighted serendipitous discoveries in glycoscience.
- This chapter expands on serendipity in biomedical sciences, filling identified gaps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail significant serendipitous discoveries in biomedical sciences.
- To provide examples beyond glycoscience.
- To discuss the concept of planning for serendipity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of case studies.
- Analysis of historical scientific discoveries.
- Conceptual discussion on fostering serendipity.
Main Results:
- Detailed accounts of four key serendipitous discoveries: intramolecular lactonization of sialic acids, ancient Chinese script, oriental beauty oolong tea, and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells.
- Demonstration of serendipity's role across diverse scientific fields.
- Exploration of proactive approaches to serendipity.
Conclusions:
- Serendipitous discoveries are vital and occur across various scientific disciplines.
- Understanding and planning for serendipity can enhance scientific innovation.
- The presented examples underscore the impact of chance in groundbreaking research.
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