Venki Ramakrishnan, a Nobel Prize-winning chemist and author of 'Why We Die', dives into the science of aging and longevity. He discusses fascinating advancements in extending life, like stem cell therapies and the controversial notion of young blood transfusions. The conversation highlights the extreme measures the wealthy take, including cryonics, while also questioning their scientific validity. Ramakrishnan emphasizes the importance of lifestyle choices alongside medical innovations in navigating the future of aging and health.
Scientific advancements are revealing promising methods for extending human longevity, attracting interest from both researchers and wealthy individuals.
Ethical implications arise as affluent individuals explore unconventional life-extending practices like blood transfusions and cryonics.
Deep dives
Challenges of Transitioning to Sustainable Energy
The energy sector is undergoing a significant transition towards sustainability, facing various challenges such as financing, infrastructure, and consumer empowerment. Key considerations include the need for investment in renewable technologies and the establishment of robust supply chains to support this shift. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on security of energy supply to ensure reliability amid fluctuating demands and climate impacts. As the world pushes towards reducing carbon emissions, these hurdles must be addressed for a successful transition to a sustainable energy future.
Innovations in the Hydrogen Economy
The hydrogen economy represents an exciting aspect of the energy transition, with potential to revolutionize how we produce and consume energy. Hydrogen can serve as a clean fuel source, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions when produced through renewable methods. Various projects and technologies aimed at harnessing hydrogen for transportation and energy storage are currently being developed. As advancements in this area progress, hydrogen could play a crucial role in achieving global sustainability goals.
The Impact of AI on Energy Solutions
Artificial intelligence is becoming an invaluable tool in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of energy systems. AI can optimize energy usage, predict demand patterns, and improve the management of renewable energy resources. It enables better forecasting, leading to reduced waste and increased sustainability across energy consumption. The integration of AI technologies in the energy sector promises to streamline operations and foster innovative solutions for a greener economy.
Humans have always been obsessed with getting old, or rather staying young, and now science is beginning to catch up. Longevity has become a hot topic from university laboratories to Silicon Valley startups. In the second of a special Science Weekly three-part mini-series on ageing, Ian Sample talks to Venki Ramakrishnan, winner of the Nobel prize in chemistry and author of the book Why We Die. Venki outlines the most promising scientific advances in the field of longevity and discusses the more unusual ways that the wealthy are trying to extend their lives, from blood transfusions to cryonics. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
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