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Loopomics: A possible breakthrough in the understanding and control of life

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3280/pnei2025oa19417
Submitted
febbraio 17, 2025
Published
2025-02-25

Abstract

Life sciences face challenges in developing theoretical frameworks for operating on biological systems. This is evident when considering disappointing results in biomedicine, as many diseases remain poorly understood despite decades of intensive efforts. The complexity of living systems is often cited as the reason for these shortcomings. To address these challenges, I have proposed a new definition of life, which I call Loopomics. According to this new paradigm, life is defined as any natural entity consisting of agents that produce physical changes, interconnected through chains of interactions that form closed loops. These loops create nonlinear systems whose dynamics are known to be characterized by single equilibrium points or transitions between different equilibrium points. The number of equilibrium points is determined by the kind of loop but is modified by bifurcation parameters, whose variation over time can significantly alter the behavior of the system. Thus, bifurcation parameters are key targets for interventions aimed at acquiring control of these systems. Biological loops give rise to ordered and predictable accumulations of materials that realize epiphenomena, including subcellular organelles, cells, tissues, organs, and organisms.
These epiphenomena do not help in conceptualizing life and can be only used to identify, map, and manipulate the loop systems. The verification of the Loopomics hypothesis can be carried out by developing loop models of pathogenesis, identifying bifurcation parameters, and addressing them as therapeutic targets. If this approach is successful, it would provide positive validation for the hypothesis and could chart a new direction for biomedical research and applied biology.

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