Science Magazine Podcast
The metabolic consequences of skipping sleep, and cuts and layoffs slam NIH
Apr 10, 2025
Jocelyn Kaiser, ScienceInsider Editor, discusses alarming budget cuts and layoffs at NIH, revealing their potential impact on science funding and public health initiatives. Jennifer Tudor, an associate professor at Saint Joseph’s University, dives into the metabolic consequences of sleep deprivation, highlighting how it hampers brain function and muscle efficiency. Her research emphasizes the need to prioritize sleep for better cognitive health and metabolic well-being, challenging the notion that we can afford to skimp on rest.
29:34
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Quick takeaways
- Significant funding cuts and layoffs at NIH are raising concerns about their impact on public health functions and scientific research.
- Sleep deprivation adversely affects metabolic health, impairing brain function and increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Deep dives
Significant Changes in Science Funding and NIH Structure
Recent changes in science funding and staff structure at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have raised concerns within the scientific community. The Department of Health and Human Services announced a large reduction in force, leading to the reassignment and termination of several institute directors and numerous staff members. These cuts aim to reduce spending and improve efficiency but have resulted in significant disruption, including the loss of entire programs and divisions at NIH, CDC, and FDA. Stakeholders express worry that these layoffs will hinder critical public health functions and slow down drug approvals, ultimately impacting the scientific research landscape.
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