Today, Explained No one nose
Mar 12, 2021
Scientists are still unraveling the mysteries of smell, with one MIT researcher on a quest to reverse-engineer it. The episode dives into the incredible olfactory talents of dogs, which can detect diseases like cancer and COVID-19. It explores how our understanding of scent goes beyond simple models, reflecting on genetic and experiential differences. The challenges of creating robotic noses to mimic canine capabilities are also discussed, culminating in DARPA's efforts to develop a 'nano nose' for advanced disease detection.
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Daisy's Diagnosis
- Dr. Claire Guest's dog, Daisy, detected her breast cancer by nudging her.
- This led to early treatment and a positive outcome.
Dogs' Disease Detection Abilities
- Dogs can smell various diseases like cancer, Parkinson's, malaria, and potentially COVID-19.
- They learn to associate specific odors with diseases through training and rewards.
The Complexity of Smell
- The traditional "lock and key" model of smell, where molecule shape determines odor, is insufficient.
- Smell involves a complex "tango" between receptors and molecules, with receptors changing shape and having varied sensitivities.
