Curiosity Weekly

From Music to Bacon, Biology is Everywhere (w/ Biologist Melanie Peffer)

May 6, 2021
Discover the shocking origins of treadmills as 19th-century torture devices before their transformation into our favorite gym equipment. Explore the surprising links between biology and everyday topics like cooking bacon and the influence of music on dopamine. Melanie Peffer connects complex biological concepts with relatable experiences, making science accessible and fun. Plus, enjoy a creative analogy that likens protein folding to crafting a paper boat, sparking curiosity about the wonders of life around us.
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ANECDOTE

Treadmills as Prison Torture Devices

  • British prisons used treadmills as punishment devices causing physical and mental strain.
  • Prisoners spent up to 10 hours walking on these wheels, which led to exhaustion and death.
INSIGHT

Biology in Daily Life Examples

  • Biology connects to everyday topics, making complex science more accessible.
  • Using relatable examples like bacon helps explain scientific concepts like protein biochemistry.
INSIGHT

Proteins Fold Like Origami

  • Proteins fold like origami, and their folded structure is essential for their function.
  • Cooking unfolds proteins, changing their texture and color, as seen in bacon.
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