TED Radio Hour Reshaping Evolution
Jan 7, 2022
Join Nobel Prize-winning biochemist Jennifer Doudna, renowned for her work on CRISPR, physicist and biotech entrepreneur Nabiha Saklayen, and conservation innovator Ryan Phelan as they delve into groundbreaking advancements in gene editing and stem cell technology. They discuss the transformative potential of CRISPR, its ethical implications, and the remarkable journey of the black-footed ferret, which highlights biotechnology's role in conservation. Together, they explore how innovation can reshape humanity and influence biodiversity.
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CRISPR Discovery
- Jennifer Doudna's RNA research led her to CRISPR, a bacterial immune system.
- She and Emmanuelle Charpentier discovered CRISPR-Cas9's gene-editing potential.
CRISPR's Precision
- CRISPR-Cas9 allows precise, programmable DNA manipulation, unlike previous tools.
- It acts like "cut and paste" for DNA, targeting and altering specific genes.
CRISPR's Impact
- Doudna had a moment of realization about CRISPR's world-changing potential while cooking.
- She reflected on the unexpected journey from an unpopular area of science.