The Naked Scientists Podcast Indus River in Kashmir crossfire, and gene-stealing cancers
May 2, 2025
Tensions rise as India considers cutting off water to Pakistan over the Indus River conflict. Meanwhile, fascinating research reveals how an ancient transmissible canine cancer could transform our understanding of tumor biology and the evolution of cancer. In a lighter twist, scientists are utilizing virtual reality technology to help people tackle their fear of public speaking, showcasing how immersive environments can greatly boost confidence and enhance presentation skills.
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Indus Waters Treaty Tensions
- The Indus Waters Treaty has survived wars and decades of hostility between India and Pakistan.
- It regulates water use but mounting tensions threaten to turn water into a political weapon.
India's Water Control Limits
- India has the upstream control of rivers flowing into Pakistan but can't simply 'turn off a tap.'
- Cutting water flow would be gradual and impact Pakistan's agriculture and power supplies.
Horizontal Gene Transfer in Cancer
- Cancer cells can acquire DNA from host cells through horizontal gene transfer.
- This challenges the idea of cancer as a strictly clonal disease and reveals new paths for cancer evolution and resistance.