The world, the universe and us Could we end winter illness?; Cold fusion’s comeback; The delicious microbiome of chocolate
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Aug 22, 2025 Michael Le Page, an expert in immunity and viral infections, discusses groundbreaking mRNA-based treatments for boosting our defenses against seasonal illnesses. He explores how a potential inhaler could provide immune protection against viruses like COVID-19. The conversation also revives the controversial cold fusion concept, as researchers explore room-temperature nuclear fusion for future tech. Lastly, dive into the fascinating world of chocolate, where microbes enhance flavors, paving the way for delicious new varieties through fermentation.
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mRNA Can Prime Broad Antiviral Defenses
- Delivering a subset of interferon-activated proteins via mRNA primes broad antiviral defenses without triggering full interferon side effects.
- Columbia's team used 10 proteins delivered as mRNA to protect cells and hamsters against multiple viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
Timing Gives The Immune System A Head Start
- Timing matters: pre-loading cells with antiviral proteins gives the immune system a head start against surprise viral attacks.
- Early expression slows viral growth and allows the adaptive immune response more time to control infection.
Solve Delivery To Respiratory Cells First
- Focus development on efficient delivery to cells in the nose, throat and lungs for respiratory protection.
- Overcome delivery challenges before expecting inhaler-style mRNA prophylactics to succeed clinically.