Nature Podcast

Long-awaited ape genomes give new insights into their evolution — and ours

Apr 9, 2025

In this intriguing discussion, Adam Levy, a reporter specializing in ape genome research, joins Andy Meyer, an author from DayZ in Germany. They delve into the complete sequencing of six ape genomes, shedding light on the evolution of our closest relatives and what distinguishes us as humans. The conversation also touches on the development of revolutionary laser plasma accelerators, which could transform particle physics by enabling more compact designs. Prepare for a fascinating exploration of genetics and cutting-edge technology!

29:48

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Episode guests

Andy Meyer

Adam Levy

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Quick takeaways

The complete sequencing of six ape genomes provides crucial insights into the genetic similarities and differences that define human evolution.

Advancements in laser plasma particle acceleration technology offer a compact alternative to traditional accelerators, enhancing research capabilities significantly.

Deep dives

Sequencing Ape Genomes: Insights into Evolution

The sequencing of ape genomes reveals significant insights into human evolution and genetics. Researchers have successfully sequenced the complete genomes of six non-human ape species, including chimpanzees and gorillas, providing a clearer understanding of the genetic similarities and differences between humans and our closest relatives. This research highlights that more than half of ape genomes consist of repetitive sequences, a finding that reshapes our comprehension of the evolutionary history of these species. The study not only sheds light on what differentiates humans from other apes but also opens avenues for research into genetic components significant for diseases affecting both humans and apes.

Intro

2min

Decoding Ape Genomes

8min

Survival Strategies: From Sea Stars to Lunar Solar Panels

3min

Innovations in Particle Acceleration

8min

Innovative Solutions in Science and AI

8min

Innovative AI Learning through Minecraft and Celebrations of Recognition

3min

00:46 Complete sequencing of ape genomes

Researchers have sequenced the complete genomes of six ape species, helping uncover the evolutionary history of our closest relatives and offering insights into what makes humans human. The genomes of chimpanzee, bonobo, gorilla, Bornean orangutan, Sumatran orangutan and siamang have been sequenced end-to-end, filling in gaps that have long eluded researchers.

Research Article: Yoo et al.

News and Views: Complete ape genomes offer a close-up view of human evolution

News: What makes us human? Milestone ape genomes promise clues

08:47 Research Highlights

How sunflower stars are evading a mysterious epidemic, and how solar panels made of moon dust could power lunar bases.

Research Highlight: Revealed: where rare and giant starfish hide from an enigmatic killer

Research Highlight: Solar cells made of Moon dust could power up a lunar base

11:36 How to make a competitive laser-plasma accelerator

After decades of research, physicists have demonstrated that, in principle, an alternative kind of particle accelerator can work just as well as more conventional designs. Many particle accelerators that power huge experiments like the Large Hadron Collider at CERN are radio-frequency accelerators, but they are large and limited in how strong their magnetic fields can be. The new work shows that accelerators that instead use plasma to accelerate particles could be a viable alternative and could be built at much smaller scales.

Research article: Winkler et al.