In Vivo

Can memories be inherited? In this episode of In Vivo, Dr. Oded Rechavi challenges long-held genetic dogma, revealing how RNA molecules, not just DNA, can store and transmit information across generations.Topics we cover:- How small RNAs bypass the Weismann barrier to transmit memory- Why our ancestors’ experiences might shape our biology- How C. elegans experiments reveal a hidden layer of inheritance- What this means for evolution, epigenetics & gene regulation- The controversial history of Lamarckian inheritance- Could RNA therapy redefine medicine, memory & disease treatment? About Dr. Oded Rechavi:Dr. Oded Rechavi is a leading researcher at Tel Aviv University, whose work on transgenerational inheritance has redefined how we think about heredity, memory, and the evolution of life itself.Listen in to explore the future of genetic inheritance and why RNA might be rewriting biology!Introduction to Inheritance Beyond DNA - 00:00:00The Weismann Barrier Explained - 00:03:56Weismann Barrier in Relation to Darwin's Evolution - 00:06:08Introduction to C. elegans and RNA Inheritance - 00:08:27RNA and Epigenetics: Challenging Traditional Inheritance - 00:09:10Mechanisms of RNA Transfer in C. elegans - 00:14:40Amplification and Persistence of RNA Across Generations - 00:15:56Example of RNA Memory in C. elegans Behavior - 00:19:47RNA's Role in Viral Immunity in C. elegans - 00:26:28RNAi and the Fight Against Genomic Parasites - 00:28:05Duration of RNA-Based Memory in Generations - 00:33:33Speculation on RNA Loss and Adaptation - 00:34:43Differences in RNA Transfer in Sperm vs. Egg - 00:38:34Time Frame for Environmental Stress to Affect Generations - 00:41:13Transgenerational Effects in More Complex Animals - 00:43:13Controversy Surrounding Transgenerational Epigenetics - 00:45:23The Dynamic and Fractal Nature of Cellular Information - 00:48:23Speculation on RNA Inheritance in Humans - 00:49:55Potential Applications of RNA Inheritance Research - 00:52:56Philosophical Implications of Inherited Memories - 00:54:36Scientific Communication Through Memes - 00:55:01Advice for Young Scientists - 00:57:27Closing Remarks - 01:00:00Dr. Rechavi's X page (the best science account on X) - https://x.com/OdedRechaviDr. Rechavi's lab - https://www.odedrechavilab.com/In Vivo on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5GBvPPvSx52O6ILuam4LoX?si=6c903566ae7b4761&nd=1&dlsi=254f9f5e78194002Introduction video attribution - The New York A

Can AI help prevent the next pandemic? Dr. Artem Babaian used computational biology to uncover 130,000 new RNA viruses in just 11 days, dramatically expanding our knowledge of viral diversity.In this episode of In Vivo, we explore:-How RNA viruses evolve & why they mutate so fast- The Serratus Project and its role in global viral surveillance- How AI, machine learning & cloud computing helped accelerate virus discovery- Why most viral genomes remain hidden in public databases- The importance of open-source science & big data in biology- How this research can help predict and prevent future pandemicsAbout Dr. Artem Babaian:Dr. Artem Babaian is a computational biologist and virologist who led the Serratus Project, a groundbreaking effort that used cloud computing to scan massive genetic databases for hidden viruses.Listen in to understand how AI and big data are reshaping virology and pandemic preparedness!Introduction to RNA and Its Evolutionary Significance - 00:02:28Explaining RNA's Role in Biology - 00:02:47The RNA World Hypothesis - 00:05:06Computational Biology and Its Impact - 00:07:05The Serratus Project: Origins and Goals - 00:09:56The Sequence Read Archive and Data Mining - 00:13:03Transition from Coronaviruses to All RNA Viruses - 00:20:22Methodology and Barcoding for Virus Discovery - 00:23:05The Scale of Virus Discovery with Serratus - 00:25:27Open Sourcing and Community Science - 00:27:07The Naming of Serratus - 00:30:23Future Predictions for Virus Discovery - 00:31:40Global Genomic Surveillance and Data Sharing - 00:33:07Implications of Discovering New RNA Viruses - 00:35:00The Role of AI in Virus Discovery - 00:37:30Using AlphaFold for Viral Protein Structure - 00:55:07RNA Modifications and Epi-transcriptomics - 01:00:38Philosophical Perspectives on Viruses and Life - 01:01:20Personal Journey and Inspirations - 01:10:02The Value of Diverse Training in Virology - 01:13:43The Role of Luck and Perseverance in Science - 01:16:00Job Market for Young Scientists - 01:18:56Qualities for Success in Computational Biology - 01:23:35Creativity and Resourcefulness in Science - 01:27:13How to Connect with the RNA Lab - 01:28:25Closing Remarks - 01:30:40Dr. Babaian's Lab - https://www.rnalab.ca/Dr. Babaian on X - https://x.com/RNA_LifeThe Serratus Project - https://serratus.ioIn Vivo on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5GBvPPvSx52O6ILuam4LoX?si=6c903566ae7b4761&nd=1&dlsi=254f9f5e78194002

Imagine a future where we can 3D print organs, heal spinal cord injuries, and test new drugs without animal models. That future is closer than you think.In this episode of In Vivo, Dr. Stephanie Willerth explains how bioprinting is transforming regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, and personalized healthcare.Topics Covered:- How bioprinting works & how it differs from traditional 3D printing- The role of stem cells in regenerative medicine & personalized implants- How scientists are printing functional tissues & even organs- Why bioprinting could replace animal testing in drug discovery- The biggest challenges in scaling up bioprinted organs for transplantation- How bioprinted tissues could be used for disease modeling & personalized medicine- The future of biofabrication & clinical applications of 3D-printed tissuesAbout Dr. Stephanie Willerth:Dr. Stephanie Willerth is a professor at the University of Victoria and the CEO of Axolotl Biosciences, a leader in bioprinting innovation. Her work in tissue engineering, stem cells, and biomaterials is pushing the boundaries of modern medicine.Listen in to explore how 3D printing is reshaping medicine, from organ regeneration to personalized drug testing.Introduction to Bioprinting and Tissue Engineering - 00:00:00Defining Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering, and Bioprinting - 00:02:06Differences Between Traditional 3D Printing and Bioprinting - 00:03:57The Role of Bioprinting in Tissue Culture Evolution - 00:05:53Potential Applications of Bioprinting in Healthcare - 00:06:14Challenges of Bioprinting Complex Organs - 00:07:26The Importance of Stem Cells in Bioprinting - 00:09:42Engineering Stem Cells for Immune Compatibility - 01:10:40Bio Ink Definition and Function - 01:13:13Resolution in Tissue Printing - 01:13:53Differentiation of Stem Cells in Bioprinting - 01:14:56Current State and Future of Bioprinting - 01:17:24Bioprinting for Drug Screening and Disease Modeling - 01:18:24Predictive Health Applications with Bioprinted Tissues - 01:19:54Integration of Multiple Cell Types in Large Structures - 01:22:13Genetics vs. Scientist Intervention in Tissue Development - 01:24:23Monitoring and Assessing Printed Tissues - 01:26:22Easiest and Hardest Tissues to Print - 01:28:37Therapeutic Applications of Bioprinting in Hospitals - 01:32:07Synergy Between Bioprinting and Brain-Computer Interfaces - 01:37:40Bioprinting as a Tool for Testing and Development - 01:40:58The Viability of Bioprinted Food - 01:43:54Personal Journey into Bioprinting and Entrepreneurship - 01:46:17Transitioning from Academia to Industry - 01:49:19Future Adoption of Bioprinting in Medical Facilities - 01:54:24Advice for Students and Skills for Bioprinting - 01:57:49Open Source in Bioprinting and Ethical Concerns - 01:00:00Hopes for Bioprinting in the Next Decade - 01:03:02Contact Information and Lab Tours - 01:06:41Closing Remarks - 01:06:58Dr. Willerth's Lab - https://www.engr.uvic.ca/~willerth/Dr. Willerth on X - https://x.com/DrWillerthHandbook of Neural Engineering: A Modern Approac by Dr. Willerth - https://www.amazon.ca/Handbook-Neural-Engineering-Modern-Approach/dp/0323957307/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30T4ATSXUZ6YY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.nZTnNzTx4HIbNNWts_LbPQ6ks7sEusaig1qrE5WKF6I.ziCXuQxYKY4ib7e9f7-Y3NJQm_XPMtUJhMHRbO9dkCU&dib_tag=se&keywords=stephanie+willerth&qid=1721329322&sprefix=stephanie+willerth%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1Axolotl Biosciences - https://www.axolotlbiosciences.com/homeIn Vivo on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5GBvPPvSx52O6ILuam4LoX?si=6c903566ae7b4761&nd=1&dlsi=254f9f5e78194002Attributions:Cellink - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvqnGjmlGaAEngineers and Geoscientists BS - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtKB0BFLy2w&t=1s

Dr. Chris Mason, NASA scientist and author of The Next 500 Years, is leading efforts to engineer human life for space travel and planetary colonization. From the Twin Study with Scott and Mark Kelly to genetic modifications for radiation resistance, this episode explores how biotechnology, genomics, and spaceflight will shape the future of our species.Topics Covered:- How genetics can help humans survive radiation & microgravity- The NASA Twin Study & what spaceflight does to the human body- How gene editing & CRISPR could prepare astronauts for Mars- The challenges of long-term space travel & planetary colonization- Why synthetic biology and microbiome engineering are key to survival- The ethical dilemmas of human genetic engineering for space- What life in space, on Mars, and beyond could look likeAbout Dr. Chris Mason:Dr. Chris Mason is a geneticist, computational biologist, and professor at Weill Cornell Medicine. He has worked extensively with NASA on space biology, including the NASA Twin Study, SpaceX collaborations, and Artemis missions. His book The Next 500 Years presents a bold plan for making humans a multi-planetary species. Listen in to explore the frontiers of genetics, space travel, and the future of humanity.Introduction to Space Exploration and Multi-Planetary Existence - 00:00:00The Role of Biology in Future Space Missions - 00:00:44The Ten Phase Plan for Engineering Life for Space - 00:01:11Ethical Responsibilities and the Book's Dedication - 00:02:01Origin of the Book and Early Thoughts on Space Exploration - 00:04:23Humanity's Drive to Explore and the Urgency of Space Travel - 00:06:42Phase One: Understanding the Human Genome - The Twin Study - 00:07:26Surprising Findings from the Twin Study - 00:08:09Immediate Telomere Elongation in Space - 00:11:03Practical Applications from Space Biology Research - 00:12:08Challenges and Innovations in Space PCR - 00:14:57Phase Two: Preliminary Genome Engineering - 00:16:48Advancements in Genome Editing Technologies - 00:17:19Long-Term Trials and Intergenerational Studies - 00:19:07Somatic vs. Germline Editing in Space Context - 00:20:11Future Phases: Synthetic Biology and Exoplanet Exploration - 00:22:15The Ultimate Goal: Multi-Planetary Societies - 00:22:32Generation Ships and Philosophical Considerations - 00:24:09Comparing Phase Ten with Kardashev Scale Achievements - 00:25:05Space Exploration Without Genetic Engineering - 00:27:44Engineering Organisms for Space Survival - 00:29:14The Extreme Microbiome Project - 00:30:45Philosophical Reflections on Humanity and Genetic Engineering - 00:32:15Concepts of Cellular, Molecular, and Planetary Liberty - 00:34:23Health Implications of Spacewalks - 00:37:21Artemis Missions and Future Lunar Studies - 00:38:42Planetary Protection and Contamination Concerns - 00:39:38Science Fiction Influences on Future Visions - 00:41:35Personal Motivations and the Fragility of Life - 00:44:10De-Extinction Efforts: The Colossus Project - 00:45:53Considering Alternative Nucleotides in Alien Life - 00:48:07Advice for Young Scientists - 00:49:26Resources for Engaging with Space Genetics - 00:52:13Closing Remarks - 00:52:40Dr. Mason's Lab - https://www.masonlab.net/NASA GeneLab - https://genelab.nasa.gov/Dr. Andy Feinberg pipetting in microgravity - https://youtu.be/FKoqqJi3-k4?si=TOvc_t-fpTxuYhHo&t=1148Attributions:SpaceX - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97GOcZ08tc4Thermo Fisher Scientific - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y2WqSdDHyo&t=18sIn Vivo on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5GBvPPvSx52O6ILuam4LoX?si=6c903566ae7b4761

Publishing research isn’t enough—science needs great storytelling.Dr. Tullio Rossi, founder of Animate Your Science, has transformed the way scientists communicate by turning complex research into engaging visual narratives.Topics Covered:Why scientists must communicate their work beyond academic journalsThe power of visual storytelling in making science accessibleHow AI is transforming scientific communication & content creationThe role of graphics, video abstracts & animations in research visibilityHow to balance creativity and accuracy in scientific visualsWhy science storytelling is essential for funding, public trust & impactCareer opportunities in science communication & visual mediaAbout Dr. Tullio Rossi:Dr. Tullio Rossi is a marine biologist turned science communication expert. He founded Animate Your Science, a company dedicated to making scientific research engaging through animations and visuals. His work has been internationally recognized for bridging the gap between researchers and the public.Listen in to learn how scientists can make their research more impactful and accessible.Introduction to Science Communication and Visual Storytelling - 00:00:00The Journey to Founding Animate Your Science - 00:02:16Merging Art and Science: The Misconception of Creativity in Science - 00:07:17The Power of Visuals in Communicating Science - 00:08:49Storytelling in Science: The "And But Therefore" Structure - 00:10:13Humanizing Scientific Subjects for Broader Impact - 00:16:16The Animation Process at Animate Your Science - 00:18:24Team Composition: Scientists and Artists Collaborating - 00:20:56Historical Examples of Visual Scientific Communication - 00:22:23The Role of AI in Graphic Design for Science - 00:24:49Challenges and Opportunities with AI in Visual Science - 00:27:14Legal Considerations with AI-Generated Content - 00:30:30Leonardo Da Vinci's Potential Views on Modern Science Communication - 00:34:08Career Opportunities in Science Visual Communication - 00:35:56Advice for Aspiring Science Graphic Designers - 00:38:26Building a Portfolio and Gaining Recognition - 00:42:11Soft Skills Essential for Success in Science Communication - 00:43:53Personal Growth Through Public Speaking and Comfort Zone Challenges - 00:45:03Transition from Freelancer to Business Owner - 00:49:36Final Words of Wisdom for Graduating Scientists - 00:54:06Where to Find More Information on Animate Your Science - 00:55:44Closing Remarks - 00:56:07Dr. Tullio Rossi's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tulliorossi/

Beer is more than just a drink—it’s a scientific masterpiece.Dr. Charlie Bamforth, known as the "Pope of Foam," is a world-renowned expert in brewing science, beer chemistry, and fermentation biotechnology. In this episode of In Vivo, we dive deep into:Topics Covered:- How beer helped shape civilization & early biotechnology- The science of foam, fermentation & yeast evolution- How brewers mastered the process without understanding the science- The role of yeast, hops, water chemistry & enzymes in brewing- The impact of biotechnology on modern brewing & genetic engineering of yeast- The truth about beer’s health effects & hydration debate- The future of craft brewing, lager yeast & genetically modified beer- Career opportunities in biotechnology & brewing scienceAbout Dr. Charlie Bamforth:Dr. Charlie Bamforth is a Professor Emeritus at UC Davis, a senior quality advisor at Sierra Nevada Brewing, and a global expert on beer science, fermentation, and brewing chemistry. His research has revolutionized how beer is made, improving foam stability, flavor, and production efficiency.Listen in to discover the fascinating science behind your favorite drink!Introduction to Beer and Biotechnology - 00:00:00The Historical Significance of Beer in Civilization - 00:00:37Mastering Brewing Without Understanding Science - 00:03:07Decoction Mashing: A Historical Brewing Technique - 00:03:34The Taste and Perception of Ancient Beers - 00:08:23Health Benefits and Controversies of Beer - 00:13:08Technological Advancements in Brewing - 00:17:52Refrigeration and Pure Yeast Cultures Impact - 00:18:20Modern Biotechnology in Brewing: Genetic Modification - 00:20:32Genetically Modified Yeast for Flavor and Efficiency - 00:22:22Availability of Yeast and Its Impact on Home Brewing - 00:27:17The Science of Malting and Its Importance - 00:31:27Brewing as a Microcosm for Teaching Biotechnology - 00:38:11The Intersection of Beer and Science in Bamforth's Career - 00:41:42The German Beer Purity Law and Its Relevance - 00:44:23Job Opportunities in Brewing for Biotechnologists - 00:46:47Fun Beer Style Associations - 00:50:48Choosing a Beer for an Alien Civilization - 00:52:22Advice for Young Biotechnologists Interested in Brewing - 00:53:16Closing Remarks - 00:53:44Dr. Bamforth at Sierra Nevada Brewing – https://sierranevada.com/blog/a-brewers-alphabet/meet-charlie-bamforth-the-pope-of-foamCheck out ‘Beer: Tap Into the Art and Science of Brewing’ by Dr. Bamforth - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/0199996741?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_detailsDr. Bamforth’s Wiki page - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_BamforthDr. Bamforth's Lab - https://bamforth.faculty.ucdavis.edu/#primary

Many students grapple with a challenging paradox: breaking into the biotech industry without any practical experience outside of their academic achievements. In today's discussion, we're exploring this dilemma with an individual who has successfully navigated this path. Joining us is Tatiana Nazarova, a Quality Control Scientist at a leading-edge pharmaceutical lab that specializes in the development of cannabis-derived molecules. With her fresh perspective and recent journey from academia to industry, Tatiana represents the voice a new generation in biotechnology — those who are directly transitioning from their studies and into the exciting world of professional biotech. In this interview, we discuss the expectations versus reality of working in a biotech lab, navigating the job market fresh out of school, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Tatiana shares her insights into the hiring process, the skills and attributes that are truly in demand within the industry, and advice for students on the cusp of graduation. So, whether you’re a student looking to break into the biotech industry or an educator guiding the next generation, Tatiana’s journey offers something for everyone.

Today I’m sitting down with Dr. Randy Peterson to discuss the evolution of biotechnology over the years, and what the future has in store. Randy worked as research scientist in academia and in an industry before moving into the commercialization aspect of biotechnology. Today he is a professor in McMaster University’s graduate Entrepreneurship and an intellectual property and commercialization mentor at IP Ontario. Randy’s journey through the industry offers us a unique perspective on the intersection between scientific advancement, intellectual property and commercialization. Randy has a keen passion for motivating young biotechnologists to consider business and entrepreneurship in an age where access to information is seemingly limitless and opportunities are abundant.

Today we’re sitting down with Dr. Peter Azmi. He’s an entrepreneur, scientist, artist, educator and ultimately a professional problem solver. He holds a Masters and PhD in cancer medicine from the University of Toronto and is a visiting professor of Business Innovation at the Monterrey Center for Higher Learning of Design, in Monterey Mexico. Dr. Azmi is a business innovation and biotechnology specialist and has worked extensively in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors, helping launch multiple biotech startups along the way. He has been involved in entrepreneurship, innovation and scientific R&D for over 20 years and has seen the challenges within the industry first-hand. Currently, he leads i+ Business Development Studios, an innovation strategy and business development agency. Dr. Azmi also teaches entrepreneurship and innovation to students around the world, helping the next generation understand stakeholder-centric principles of business design and strategy. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into turning an idea into an invention and then into business, this is the episode for you. Learn more about Dr. Peter Azmi's entrepreneurial work here: https://innovatingbd.com/

The following is a conversation with Mingyang Sun, a scientist, entrepreneur and former classmate of mine at York University. There, he completed a masters in molecular biology and then a masters of business administration at the UBC Sauder school of business. Ming has worn many hats during his career in the biotech industry, ascending the ladder from lab manager, to product developer, then vice president of a Cannabis startup and now CEO of Bioboost Synbio. His current ventures seek to develop plant-based sanitizers and pesticides for the agriculture industry. He’s also using synthetic biology to produce a variety of biosynthesized molecules via yeast fermentation. There are few biotechnologists that have seen the industry from so many perspectives in such a short period of time. His journey is inspiring and he has many lessons to share. So I’m excited to sit down with Ming to discuss the in’s and out’s of the industry, the hurdles and challenges of biomanufacturing as well as the exciting future that these technologies promise. Learn more about Mingyang's biotech companies here: https://www.bioboostsynbio.com/ and here: https://www.naturerecombined.com/