Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta

The podcast dives into the controversies surrounding glyphosate and its connection to major agricultural companies. It critiques a sensationalized science communication episode that inaccurately ties glyphosate to cancer fears. The discussion highlights the complexities farmers face with herbicide regulations and seed choices. It also examines the shifting safety classification of glyphosate by regulatory bodies. The episode emphasizes the importance of peer-reviewed research in countering misinformation and maintaining scientific integrity.

Delve into the surprising health benefits of the HPV and shingles vaccines beyond their primary purposes. Recent analyses reveal that HPV vaccination correlates with reduced risks of several cancers, including lung and blood cancers. Additionally, shingles vaccines may offer protective effects against dementia and heart diseases. These revelations could shift public perception of vaccines, emphasizing their vital role in comprehensive health. It's a compelling argument against vaccine hesitancy while raising awareness about crucial health issues.

In this episode of the Talking Biotech podcast, Dr. Andrey Zarur, CEO of Greenlight Biosciences, discusses the innovative applications of RNA technology in agriculture. The conversation covers the challenges of food security, the role of RNA in pest control, and the regulatory advantages of RNA-based products. Dr. Zarur highlights the efficacy and safety of RNA insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, as well as the company's efforts to address bee health. The discussion also touches on public perception and the importance of transparent communication in biotechnology.00:00Introduction to RNA and Its Role in Agriculture02:02Challenges in Global Food Production05:07The Promise of RNA Technology10:05Regulatory Landscape for RNA-Based Solutions13:52Stability and Application of RNA Products18:00Product Development and Efficacy of RNA Pesticides19:48Targeting Specific Pests with RNA Technology26:51AI in RNA Design and Future Prospects30:01Innovative Approaches to Pest Control32:41Targeting Specific Pests with RNA Technology35:22Challenges in Regulatory Approval and Public Perception38:02Engaging with the Public and NGOs42:46Addressing the Varroa Mite Crisis in Beekeeping49:18Developing RNA Solutions for Weed Management

Dr. Robert Tarone, a retired scientist specializing in cancer statistics, joins the discussion to scrutinize the IARC's decade-old classification of glyphosate as a probable carcinogen. He highlights flaws in the evaluation process and emphasizes the lack of credible data linking glyphosate to cancer. The conversation also dives into the legal repercussions for manufacturers, societal perceptions shaped by misinformation, and the necessity for rigorous scientific methodologies in this heated debate.

David Zaruk, a retired academic and environmental health risk analyst known as the Risk Monger, delves into the complexities surrounding glyphosate, a chemical reclassified as a probable carcinogen. He critiques the role of the IARC in assessing glyphosate's risks and discusses the profound societal divides regarding its use in agriculture. The conversation highlights how media sensationalism influences public perception and calls into question the ethics of litigation finance in glyphosate lawsuits. Zaruk emphasizes the need for transparency and informed discussions about agricultural practices.

Dr. Jiajing Wang, an assistant professor at Dartmouth College, dives into the fascinating history of pig domestication. He reveals how ancient pigs transitioned from wild ancestors to farm staples, showcasing evidence from archaeological finds in China and Mesopotamia. The discussion highlights innovative dental calculus analysis that sheds light on ancient pig diets and their relationship with humans. Wang also uncovers intriguing links between pigs and human waste, demonstrating how these animals have adapted alongside humans for over 8,000 years.

Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer, an Assistant Professor at Stanford's Knight Initiative for Brain Resilience, shares groundbreaking research on the shingles vaccine's potential to prevent dementia. They delve into the surprising link between shingles vaccination and cognitive decline, emphasizing its importance for older adults. The discussion also highlights alarming dementia prevalence and the challenges of current treatments. With data indicating that vaccination may significantly reduce dementia risk, the conversation underscores the urgent need for further research and community support.

Maria Rottersman, a Ph.D. candidate at UC Davis, is pioneering research to create wheat with reduced gluten content for celiac disease sufferers. She explores the complex nature of wheat's genetics and the implications of rising gluten sensitivities. The conversation dives into traditional and modern methods, including radiation-induced mutations and CRISPR, aimed at developing immunogenicity-safe wheat. Rottersman also emphasizes the importance of maintaining bread quality while meeting the needs of gluten-intolerant individuals, showcasing her commitment to impactful science communication.

The podcast pays tribute to Dr. Franklin Stahl, celebrating his pivotal role in molecular genetics. It details the groundbreaking Messelson and Stahl experiment from 1958 that revealed the semi-conservative nature of DNA replication. This remarkable experiment is praised for its elegance and simplicity, marking a significant breakthrough in our understanding of genetic inheritance. The discussion highlights the lasting impact of Stahl's work on biology, making it a compelling listen for science enthusiasts.

Connie Diekman, a food and nutrition consultant and former media expert, teams up with Dr. Cami Ryan, an industry affairs leader at Bayer Canada, to discuss the swirling storm of misinformation in food science. They delve into how both social and traditional media influence public perceptions and the challenges scientists face in communicating effectively. The duo emphasizes the importance of trust-building, peer review, and enhancing scientific literacy to help consumers navigate today’s complex information landscape.