This Week in Virology TWiV 1269: The smell of influenza in the morning
Nov 9, 2025
The podcast dives into the legacy of James D. Watson, highlighting his contributions and controversies in DNA research. It discusses alarming trends in bird flu outbreaks and the impact of budget cuts on global influenza surveillance. The panel explores significant findings linking HPV to cancers through groundbreaking studies. A fascinating human challenge study on influenza sheds light on infection dynamics and shedding patterns. Finally, the hosts recommend intriguing topics like a pandemic-themed board game and the environmental effects of whiskey fungus.
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Watson's Early Breakthrough And Legacy
- Rich Condit recounts James D. Watson's role in deducing DNA structure at age 25 and his later career at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
- Condit notes Watson's controversies but emphasizes his transformative contribution to science.
HPV Research Linked Infection To Cancer
- Harald Zur Hausen's work tied diverse papillomavirus findings into a unifying explanation for cervical cancer's infectious etiology.
- That insight led directly to vaccines which now prevent HPV-driven cancers worldwide.
Vaccinate Against HPV Even After Exposure
- Get vaccinated against HPV even if previously infected because vaccination improves outcomes and reduces recurrence risk.
- Vincent Racaniello emphasizes vaccination prevents cancer and saves lives.
