JOURNAL ARTICLE

Biostasis: Historical Context.

  • Published In: Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 2025, v. 166, n. 1. P. 90 1 of 3

  • Database: America: History and Life with Full Text 2 of 3

  • Authored By: MAIENSCHEIN, JANE 3 of 3

Abstract

The article provides a historical overview of the concept of biostasis, defined as a state of suspended animation in biological systems. It traces the evolution of biostasis through five periods: empirical observations, fanciful narratives, scientific explanations, engineering approaches, and experimental/medical applications. Key figures such as Antony van Leeuwenhoek and Benjamin Franklin are highlighted for their early observations of suspended life, while modern advancements in cryopreservation and medical techniques like hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) illustrate contemporary applications of biostasis. The article concludes with ethical reflections on the implications of intentionally pausing life processes in medical contexts. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society. 2025/03, Vol. 166, Issue 1, p90
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Science
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0003-049X
  • DOI:10.1353/pro.2025.a963677
  • Accession Number:186169824
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