Phenomenological Exploration of Perceptions, Emotional Responses, and Ethical Considerations in Biotechnology-Based Drug Development
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Abstract
Biotechnology-based drug development has significantly advanced medical treatments but also presents unique challenges and ethical concerns for researchers and clinicians. While much of the existing research focuses on technical and regulatory aspects, there is a lack of understanding regarding the subjective experiences of those directly involved in the field. Specifically, the emotional, ethical, and personal dimensions of biotechnology development remain underexplored. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the lived experiences of biotechnology professionals and exploring how they perceive the risks and benefits of drug development. Using a phenomenological approach, this research delves into the personal, emotional, and ethical experiences of participants involved in biotechnology drug development. Through in-depth interviews with 15 participants, thematic analysis revealed key themes, including the balance between risk and reward, challenges in identifying natural compounds, and the role of bioinformatics in enhancing the drug development process. The findings underscore the importance of considering personal and emotional factors in decision-making and the need for more efficient screening technologies. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of biotechnology-based drug development by focusing on the human aspects often overlooked in conventional research, offering valuable insights for future studies in this field.
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