Science Magazine Podcast

A dive into the genetic history of India, and the role of vitamin A in skin repair

Mar 7, 2024

Exploring the genetic history of India through large genome sequencing, including interactions with Neanderthals. Discussion on the role of vitamin A in skin repair and stem cell plasticity, highlighting its impact on hair growth and wound healing.

30:03

Creator website

Episode guests

Matthew Tierney

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Modern Indian genomes show unique Neanderthal DNA distribution, indicating adaptive advantages.

Vitamin A, specifically retinoic acid, plays a vital role in directing stem cells for tissue repair.

Deep dives

Insights into Ancient Migrations and Neanderthal Ancestry in India

Research reveals that Indian populations exhibit a unique distribution of Neanderthal DNA fragments, with about 90% of known Neanderthal genome reconstructable from modern-day Indian genomes. Unique Neanderthal genetic sequences specific to Indian populations suggest potential adaptive advantages, possibly related to fighting diseases. The study sheds light on ancient migrations in India and the diverse intermingling of populations in the region.

Understanding Lineage Plasticity and Stem Cell Flexibility in Tissue Repair

00:59

Neanderthal DNA Diversity in Indian Population

00:55

Ancestral Origins of Modern-Day Indians

01:03

Introduction

2min

Neanderthal DNA in Indian Populations

12min

Challenges in Finding Neanderthal Sites and Role of Vitamin A in Skin Repair

4min

Deciphering Lineage Plasticity in Skin Regeneration

7min

Exploring the Role of Retinoic Acid in Stem Cell Lineage Plasticity

6min

What modern Indian genomes say about the region’s deep past, and how vitamin A influences stem cell plasticity

First up this week, Online News Editor Michael Price and host Sarah Crespi talk about a large genome sequencing project in India that reveals past migrations in the region and a unique intermixing with Neanderthals in ancient times.

Next on the show, producer Kevin McLean chats with Matthew Tierney, a postdoctoral fellow at Rockefeller University, about how vitamin A and stem cells work together to grow hair and heal wounds.

This week’s episode was produced with help from Podigy.

About the Science Podcast

Authors: Sarah Crespi; Kevin McLean; Michael Price

Episode page: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.zfhqarg

About the Science Podcast: https://www.science.org/content/page/about-science-podcast

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