Decentralized Science (DeSci) is driving the innovation of scientific research through blockchain technology, aiming to enhance transparency and collaboration, similar to the potential explosion in the early stages of decentralized finance (DeFi). Industry insiders generally believe that DeSci could be a key turning point for the future of scientific research, redefining existing frameworks.
Core concepts of DeSci
DeSci is a method that utilizes blockchain technology to address the limitations of traditional frameworks in scientific research. Its features include:
Transparency: The storage and sharing of research data and results are becoming more open and transparent.
Open collaboration: Decentralized protocols allow more researchers, patients, and the public to participate.
Fair distribution: Achieves proportional distribution of research earnings through smart contracts.
Similarities between DeSci development model and DeFi
Malleability in the early stages: DeSci, like DeFi in 2019, is still in its early development phase. Like Maker and Aave at that time, DeSci protocols are continually iterating to meet market demands.
Driving innovation momentum: DeSci projects aim to solve real-world problems through blockchain technology. For example:
BIO Protocol: Promotes co-ownership of drug rights between researchers and patients, distributing scientific value.
Pump Science: Provides a tokenized economic model for longevity treatments, increasing funding and public participation.
GLP1: Focuses on health and obesity treatment, promoting the widespread dissemination of healthy lifestyles.
Blockchain empowers scientific research
Practical applications of DeSci cover the following areas:
Accelerating scientific validation: Enhancing the efficiency and fairness of the peer review process through the immutable nature of blockchain.
Reducing high-tech costs: Technologies like gene testing become cheaper and more accessible in the DeSci model.
Empowering citizens: Individuals can contribute resources and data, directly participate in scientific research, while breaking the traditional institutions' monopoly on research directions.
This model shifts the focus of scientific research from companies to the public, making research directions more democratic and human-centered.
Market potential of DeSci
Currently, the market value of the DeSci ecosystem has reached 1.2 billion USD, demonstrating strong growth potential. Major projects include:
OriginTrail (TRAC): Focuses on the verification and traceability of supply chain data, with a market value of 374.9 million USD.
VitaDAO (VITA): Funds longevity-related research through a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO).
Rifampicin (RIF): Has unique advantages in data storage and transactions.
This indicates that investors are increasingly recognizing DeSci as an important tool for addressing scientific research issues.
Future outlook
The prospects of DeSci are exciting:
Integration of technology and society: Blockchain technology will drive scientific research towards greater transparency, efficiency, and collaboration.
Industry leaders leading the way: Industry leaders like Andrew Kang believe that DeSci could be the next field capable of disrupting the industry.
Gradually maturing ecosystem: As more projects take off, DeSci will become an important force in driving scientific innovation.
Just as DeFi reshaped the traditional financial system through smart contracts and decentralized financial models, DeSci is also expected to use blockchain tools to change scientific research and build a more inclusive and efficient scientific ecosystem.