B2 – Upper Intermediate
Digital twins, which are virtual replicas of real-world systems, are being explored for their potential to transform drug discovery. This innovative technology could improve the efficiency of research and accelerate the process of developing new treatments, offering a promising approach to the pharmaceutical industry. By simulating biological systems, digital twins have the potential to change how drugs are developed, making the process more effective and streamlined.
Read this article to learn more about how digital twins can help reduce the number of injuries and deaths caused by medical devices.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq8v73dkne3o
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “intersperse” mean? “Using biological data from real people, Sanofi creates AI-based simulated patients – not actual clones of specific individuals – that can be interspersed across the control and placebo groups within the trial.” Make a sentence and give a synonym.
- Define “next frontier“. “Powering the next generation of digital twins with accurate AI models of complex human biology is the next frontier.” Use this in a sentence.
- What does “a fraction of something” mean? “Even a fraction of those deaths – and the associated lawsuits – could have been avoided with more thorough testing.” Create a sentence with this.
Discussion Questions:
- What’s your opinion on digital twins?
- How do you feel about the idea of using digital twins to replace animal testing in drug development?
- What are the potential risks or limitations of using digital twins in drug development?
- In your opinion, what impact will digital twins have on patient safety and drug effectiveness?
- Do you think digital twins could eventually make clinical trials faster and more efficient, or do you believe traditional trials will always be needed in drug development?