WTF IS DESCI?? 🔬🥼 BLOCKCHAIN x SCIENCE FTW: The Aggregated Ep. 74

The Spaces covered various aspects of decentralized science (dSci), blockchain's role in healthcare, and its impact on various fields, such as genetics, marine biology, and psychology. Key focuses were on the challenges of funding, data transparency, and regulatory issues in healthcare, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several speakers brought forward their projects, such as AxonDAO focusing on decentralized health data, Mezo Reef DAO's efforts in marine conservation, and Molecule’s work on IP-NFTs for collective governance. Participants also discussed Brian Armstrong's involvement in accelerating biotech innovation and potential political influences on healthcare practices.

Decentralized Science and Blockchain in Healthcare

This week's episode focused on decentralization within scientific research and healthcare, highlighting how blockchain technology can contribute to greater transparency, efficiency, and collaboration. Speakers from diverse backgrounds shared insights into their projects and the potential of decentralized science (dSci) to address current inefficiencies in the traditional medical and scientific research landscape.

Key Projects Featured

AxonDAO

AxonDAO is working on a decentralized approach to healthcare data, emphasizing the importance of patients owning their data and using AI for improved health outcomes. They have launched various research projects, including the innovative A+ voice project that leverages AI for healthcare.

Mezo Reef DAO

This project focuses on marine biology, particularly the conservation of coral reefs in Latin America. They employ decentralized science to fund and support research efforts aimed at understanding and mitigating the impact of climate change and human activities on these ecosystems.

Molecule

Molecule utilizes blockchain to digitize and decentralize intellectual property (IP) through IP-NFTs, allowing community governance and funding for drug development and other scientific research.

Broader Discussions

Impact of Decentralization on COVID-19 Response

The dialogue included whether decentralized science could have improved transparency and response during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants argued that a more transparent, data-driven approach might have prevented some of the pitfalls experienced, such as misuse of ventilators and misinformation.

Regulatory and Ethical Considerations

There was a robust discussion on healthcare regulations, pharmaceutical patents, and the ethics of drug pricing. The general consensus highlighted the need for a balance between incentivizing innovation and ensuring accessibility of life-saving drugs.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Another significant theme was how to involve more people in dSci initiatives. Suggestions included greater educational outreach, community-driven research projects, and leveraging platforms like decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) for collective action and funding.

Brian Armstrong's Involvement

Brian Armstrong’s participation in biotech innovation was discussed, particularly focusing on his new initiative, Research Hub, which aims to apply blockchain to accelerate scientific research.

Marketing and Awareness for dSci

The episode wrapped up with discussions on how dSci projects can better market themselves to attract funding and participants. The importance of community engagement and effective communication was emphasized, with various suggestions on reaching out to relevant stakeholders.