Gamers Boost Biomedical Breakthroughs
April 2024
McGill University

Introduction
Dive into how 4.5 million gamers are revolutionizing biomedical research, all within the virtual world of Borderlands 3! This isn't just any game; it's a groundbreaking collaboration with McGill University and Gearbox Entertainment, turning fun into scientific breakthroughs. By playing a mini-game, these players have mapped the evolutionary history of gut bacteria, enhancing AI and our understanding of the microbiome. Who knew saving the galaxy could help save human health?
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Game On for Science!
Imagine playing your favorite video game and helping advance medical science at the same time! This is exactly what happened with millions of gamers playing Borderlands 3. By participating in a mini-game, these gamers helped scientists understand more about the microbes living in our guts, which play a huge role in our health. This collaboration between gamers and scientists represents a new frontier where entertainment and serious scientific research intersect. The implications are vast - from improving AI technology to tackling diseases. For you, this means your gaming could one day contribute to major scientific breakthroughs. How cool would that be?
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Biomedical Research
Study that applies biological and other scientific principles to clinical practice to improve human health.

Microbiome
The community of microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses) that inhabit a particular environment, including the body.

Evolutionary Relationships
Connections among species or organisms that reveal their historical development and genetic ties.

Algorithms
Step-by-step procedures or formulas for solving problems, often used by computers.

Citizen Science
Scientific research conducted, in whole or in part, by amateur or non-professional scientists.

Genomic Material
The DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) content that provides the genetic information for an organism.
Independent Research Ideas

Game Design and Scientific Accuracy
Explore how accurately scientific concepts must be represented in video games to contribute effectively to real-world science.

Psychological Impact of Gaming on Learning
Investigate how engaging in gaming that includes educational content can affect learning outcomes and cognitive development.

Ethics of Using Entertainment for Scientific Research
Discuss the ethical considerations of integrating real scientific research tasks into commercial video games.

AI and Microbiome Research
Study how advancements in AI could revolutionize our understanding of the microbiome and its impact on health.

Community Building Through Gaming
Examine how multiplayer online games can foster global communities and promote collective scientific literacy and problem-solving.
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