Organ-on-a-chip (OoC) is a microfluidic device that uses living human cells to recreate the structure and function of individual human organs in a lab setting. This new technology allows for the simulation of biological processes usually limited to organ-level. 

Animal models refer to non-human organisms, such as mice, rats, or primates, that are used in research to study biological processes, disease mechanisms, and the effects of treatments under controlled conditions.

In article publication, the traditional peer review process involves anonymous experts evaluating a manuscript before it is accepted for publication, often resulting in multiple rounds of revisions. Reviewers and editors make accept/reject decisions, and the reviews are typically not visible to the public.

Since 2021, eLife — a non-profit, peer-reviewed open-access journal in the biomedical and life sciences — has adopted a “publish, then review” model, in which all reviewed preprints are published alongside reviewer comments, regardless of revisions. Editors no longer issue binary accept/reject decisions but instead focus on facilitating constructive feedback and public evaluation.

GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists are medications that mimic the action of the natural hormone GLP-1 to enhance insulin secretion, suppress appetite, and slow gastric motility. They are commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes. Examples include semglutide (i.e. Ozempic and Wegovy) and liraglutide (i.e. Victoza)

Transhumanism is a philosophical movement that advocates for the use of advanced technology to enhance human physical and cognitive abilities. It explores concepts like genetic modification, artificial intelligence, and brain-computer interfaces, not merely to extend human lifespan but to deliberately transcend the functional limitations of human biology.

First-principles design involves breaking a problem down to its fundamental physics or truths and building solutions from the ground up—as Elon Musk did when founding SpaceX, choosing to manufacture rockets in-house by questioning why rockets cost so much, rather than accepting existing aerospace supply chains.

In contrast, iterative optimization focuses on improving existing systems through continuous testing and refinement—like jet engine manufacturers enhancing fuel efficiency over decades by modifying blade geometry and materials.