Biological Research at 50
An Open Access Journey from Santiago to the World
Introduction: A Legacy of Discovery, A Future of Open Science
For half a century, the journal Biological Research has been a quiet powerhouse in the world of experimental biology, serving as a vital conduit for scientific discovery. Founded in 1964 as the Archives of Experimental Medicine and Biology, this publication has witnessed and facilitated countless biological breakthroughs from its Chilean home 1 . Now, as it marks its 50th anniversary, the journal has embarked on its most transformative chapter yet—joining the open access powerhouse BioMed Central 1 .
50 Years of Publishing
From 1964 to present, Biological Research has been a cornerstone of biological sciences publication.
Chilean Roots, Global Reach
Originating in Santiago, the journal now reaches researchers worldwide through open access.
"By embracing open access, Biological Research has positioned itself at the forefront of a movement that is breaking down paywalls and accelerating the pace of discovery for researchers, students, and citizens worldwide."
The Open Access Revolution in Biological Sciences
What Does "Open Access" Really Mean?
Open access publishing represents a paradigm shift from traditional scientific publishing models. In conventional systems, research findings are typically locked behind paywalls, accessible only to individuals at institutions that can afford expensive journal subscriptions 7 .
- Accelerated Discovery
- Global Equity
- Public Engagement
- Transparency
Biological Research's Expanding Scientific Scope
Under its new open access model, Biological Research continues to encompass a remarkably diverse range of experimental biology fields 1 .
A Closer Look: CRISPR Screening at Scale
A Key Experiment in Modern Biology
The Methodology: Genome-Wide Functional Studies
One of the most powerful experimental approaches revolutionizing biological research combines CRISPR gene-editing technology with high-throughput screening systems 4 .
Library Design
Researchers create a comprehensive collection of guide RNAs (gRNAs) targeting every known gene in the genome.
Viral Transduction
Lentiviruses containing these gRNA libraries are used to infect cells.
Selection Pressure
The pool of genetically modified cells is subjected to specific conditions.
Sequencing and Analysis
Researchers sequence the gRNAs present in surviving cells to identify influential gene modifications.
Results and Analysis: From Data to Discovery
In a typical CRISPR screening experiment, researchers obtain quantitative data about which gene perturbations confer sensitivity or resistance to the condition being tested.
| Gene Identified | Known Function | Fold Enrichment | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP53 | Tumor suppressor | 8.5 | Confirms mechanism |
| BCL2L1 | Anti-apoptotic protein | 12.3 | Combination therapy |
| Novel Gene X | Previously uncharacterized | 6.7 | New drug target |
| MAPK1 | Signaling kinase | 9.2 | Biomarker potential |
Advantages of CRISPR Screening
| Parameter | Traditional Genetics | RNA Interference | CRISPR Screening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Throughput | Low | Medium | High (genome-wide) |
| Specificity | Variable | Moderate off-target effects | High specificity |
| Duration | Months to years | Weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Cost per gene | High | Moderate | Low at scale |
| Phenotype strength | Strong | Variable | Strong knockout |
The Scientist's Toolkit: Essential Research Reagent Solutions
Modern biological research relies on sophisticated tools and reagents that enable precise manipulation and measurement of biological systems.
| Reagent/Material | Function in Research | Application in CRISPR Screening |
|---|---|---|
| Guide RNA Libraries | Direct Cas9 to specific genomic locations | Genome-wide pooled libraries targeting all known genes |
| Cas9 Nuclease | DNA-cutting enzyme that creates double-strand breaks | Stable cell lines expressing Cas9 constitutively |
| Lentiviral Vectors | Efficient delivery of genetic material into cells | Transduction of guide RNA libraries into target cells |
| Selection Antibiotics | Enrich for successfully modified cells | Puromycin for cells containing CRISPR constructs |
| Next-Generation Sequencing Reagents | Identify enriched/depleted guide RNAs | Amplification and sequencing of integrated gRNAs |
| Cell Culture Media | Support growth and maintenance of cellular models | Tissue-specific media for cancer cell lines |
The Future of Biological Research: Emerging Trends and Opportunities
AI-Powered Discovery
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how researchers analyze biological data, with tools like DeepMind's AlphaFold offering new ways to understand protein structures 4 .
Molecular Editing Advances
Beyond CRISPR, new techniques like molecular editing are emerging, allowing for precise modification of a molecule's structure 3 .
Sustainability Focus
The biotech research community is increasingly focused on developing sustainable practices, including reducing energy consumption in labs 4 .
Research Impact Areas
Conclusion: Five Decades of Discovery, A Future of Possibility
The journey of Biological Research over the past fifty years mirrors the evolution of biology itself—from specialized silos to interconnected systems, from restricted access to open collaboration. By joining BioMed Central and embracing open science, the journal has positioned itself not just as a record of biological discovery, but as an active participant in accelerating that discovery.
The groundbreaking research it publishes—from CRISPR screens to single-cell analyses—continues to reveal the exquisite complexity of living systems while offering promising pathways to address human disease, environmental challenges, and fundamental questions about life itself.
As the Chilean Biology Society—the journal's founding organization—continues to promote "theoretical and experimental studies and research leading to advancement in and dissemination of the biological sciences for the benefit of the community," Biological Research stands as a testament to the power of shared knowledge 1 .
In its next fifty years, this open access platform will undoubtedly continue to serve as a vital conduit for biological discoveries that reshape our understanding of the natural world and improve lives across the globe.
Impact Factor (2024)