

Luke O'Neill
Professor of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin specialising in immunology and inflammation, known for public science communication and research on immune responses relevant to cancer and infectious disease.
Top 5 podcasts with Luke O'Neill
Ranked by the Snipd community

Nov 6, 2025 • 11min
An exciting development happened in the world of immunology
Professor Luke O'Neill, a leading immunologist from Trinity College Dublin, delves into the fascinating intersection of COVID vaccines and cancer treatment. He reveals groundbreaking data showing lung cancer patients who received mRNA vaccines have doubled their survival rates. Dive into discussions about why some immune systems fail to respond and how RNA vaccines could revolutionize treatments for other diseases like malaria and HIV. O'Neill also touches on genetic sequencing of tumors to develop targeted vaccines and the potential connections between shingles vaccination and Alzheimer's risk.

Nov 13, 2025 • 5min
The appetite for weight-loss drugs has been insatiable
Professor Luke O'Neill, a leading biochemist from Trinity College Dublin, dives into the booming market of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, projected to hit $54 billion in 2024. He discusses the rapid demand growth and the safety concerns, particularly muscle loss associated with these treatments. O'Neill contrasts oral and injectable formulations, highlighting their effectiveness. Additionally, he sheds light on the broader impacts these drugs could have beyond weight loss, including potential benefits for addiction and heart health.

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Immunotherapy in cancer continues to advance
In this engaging discussion, Professor Luke O'Neill, a leading biochemist from Trinity College Dublin specializing in immunology, dives into groundbreaking research on pancreatic cancer treatment. He explores engineered immune cells, specifically CAR-NKT cells, showing promise in targeting tumors effectively. O'Neill contrasts these with CAR-T approaches, discusses treatment delivery methods, and highlights preclinical successes in mice. He also addresses the projected $5,000 cost for off-the-shelf therapies and the urgency of fast-tracking human trials, sparking hope for future cancer patients.

Nov 27, 2025 • 10min
Science with Luke: How to avoid a hangover?
Luke O'Neill, a distinguished Professor of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin, dives deep into the science of hangovers. He details how compounds like acetaldehyde and dehydrating effects lead to those dreaded morning-after symptoms. Interestingly, he explains why infrequent drinkers often suffer worse hangovers and discusses the role of congeners in darker drinks. O'Neill shares practical tips like consuming milk before drinking and opting for carbohydrates and juice the next morning. His insights aim to help listeners make informed, enjoyable choices this holiday season.

Nov 20, 2025 • 10min
Will AI actually make us less smart?
Professor Luke O'Neill, a renowned expert in biochemistry and immunology at Trinity College Dublin, delves into a thought-provoking MIT study revealing that AI may diminish students' cognitive abilities. He discusses how AI impacts creativity, attention, and the ability to defend one’s work. Luke highlights trends showing reduced critical thinking in workplaces reliant on AI. Their discussion also covers the historical fears of technology affecting cognition and suggests that while AI can aid in routine tasks, it may lead to detrimental dependence and laziness.


