Huberman Lab
Dr. Oded Rechavi: Genes & the Inheritance of Memories Across Generations
Feb 27, 2023
Dr. Oded Rechavi, a neurobiology professor at Tel Aviv University, specializes in genetic inheritance and the surprising transmission of memories across generations. In a fascinating discussion, he challenges traditional views of genetics by explaining how experiences can influence genetic makeup, raising profound implications for nature versus nurture debates. He also highlights his research using model organisms like C. elegans to show how stressors and memories can be passed down, fundamentally altering our understanding of behavior and evolution.
02:27:23
Episode guests
AI Summary
Highlights
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Experiences and environmental factors can modify genes and be passed on to offspring through epigenetics and RNA biology.
- The concept of inheritance of acquired traits has a complex history and has been controversial in the scientific community.
Deep dives
Inheritance of Acquired Traits and Epigenetics
The podcast episode discusses the concept of inheritance of acquired traits and the role of epigenetics in transmitting traits across generations. It explores the idea that experiences and environmental factors can modify genes and be passed on to offspring. The episode highlights examples of studies conducted on starvation, metabolic changes, and stress in various organisms, including humans. It emphasizes the barriers to this type of inheritance, such as the separation of soma from germline and the process of epigenetic reprogramming. The episode also mentions the complex nature of epigenetics and the ongoing research to understand the mechanisms involved.
