Short Wave

The Fungal Science Behind HBO's 'The Last of Us'

Feb 21, 2023
Asyia Gusa, a fungal researcher at Duke University, dives into the fascinating and terrifying world of fungi in relation to the hit HBO series. She discusses how climate change fuels the evolution of fungi capable of surviving in human bodies, making them a real threat. Gusa explains the differences between dramatic insect behaviors of fungi like cordyceps and actual risks to human health. She also highlights the challenges in research and treatment of fungal diseases, emphasizing the need for greater public awareness of these often-overlooked pathogens.
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INSIGHT

A Fungal Twist

  • The Last of Us uses a fungal pandemic caused by climate change.
  • This differs from typical zombie narratives using viruses or bacteria.
INSIGHT

Body Temperature as Defense

  • Human body temperature acts as a barrier to fungal infections.
  • Fungi cannot thrive in temperatures above 94 degrees.
ANECDOTE

Cryptococcus: A Real Threat

  • Cryptococcus, a fungus studied by Asyia Gusa, can grow at human body temperature.
  • It's the leading fungal killer, causing cryptococcal meningitis, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
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