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New Scientist Podcasts
#40: Halloween special: real-life vampires, the science of ghosts, deep-sea zombies, monster black holes
Oct 30, 2020
Real-life vampires in California infuse themselves with young blood plasma to rejuvenate their brains and extend their lives. The podcast explores the mysteries of ghosts, the destructive force of black holes, and the existence of zombie microbes. It also discusses the similarities between near-death experiences and the effects of psychedelic drugs, as well as the strange phenomena within black holes and the possibility of wormholes.
28:52
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Quick takeaways
- Rejuvenation through young blood plasma, known as the young blood treatment, shows potential for extending lifespan and improving cognitive performance.
- Zombie microbes found in the sea floor sediment can survive in a 'zombie-like state,' raising questions about the definition of life and the possibility of extraterrestrial microbial life.
Deep dives
Vampires: The Science of Young Blood
There is a scientific concept of rejuvenation through young blood called the young blood treatment. In this treatment, individuals receive infusions of young blood plasma to rejuvenate their brain and organs, potentially leading to a longer and better life. Studies on mice have shown that sharing blood supply between young and older mice can rejuvenate the older mouse's brain. Moreover, injecting young mouse plasma into older mice also rejuvenated their brain and other organs. While the exact mechanism is not yet understood, proteins like GDF 11, osteopontin, and TIMP2 have all shown potential in improving cognitive performance and extending lifespan. Although the young blood trial has been suspended, research into the benefits of young blood and its potential applications continues.
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