Roadmap for a Systems Biology Initiative in Iran.

Abstract

Background: Systems biology is an interdisciplinary approach, which will fundamentally transform the way biology is perceived and studied. Subsequently, biomedical knowledge, medical practice, health systems, and related industries will be changed. This change will ultimately lay the foundation for the new generation of medicine or high-performance medicine, so-called personalized medicine. The results of this renovation are already emerging at five levels: knowledge level, patient level, therapist level, health system level, and industry level. A national roadmap is the right way to shape the future in a conscious, effective, and preconceived way.

Methods: Here, we provide a roadmap to expand systems biology approach in Iran, which can serve as a model for other countries with similar resources and strategic situation. We begin with field studies to map the current situation in the field and potential promoters and deterrents. We then identify key players and evaluate their power and benefit from expansion of systems biology approach. Finally, we provide strategies, key action areas, and feasible actions, as well as achievable goals and realistic vision and mission in a 10-year timeline, all in light of guidance from experts and pioneers in the field of systems biology.

Results: We identified the strategic position of Iran at WO area, which means the need to focus on conservative strategies to minimize the weaknesses leveraging opportunities.

Conclusions: Implementation of our suggestive 10-year roadmap will enhance the current situation of Iran in systems biology field to be the pioneer in west asia and a major player in the world.