Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta

Dr. Matthew Disney, an expert in small-molecule therapeutics at the UF Scripps Institute, dives into the revolutionary potential of RNA as a therapeutic target. He explores its pathogenic roles in diseases like ALS and myotonic dystrophy, and discusses innovative strategies to design small molecules that target structured RNA. Disney also highlights how RIBOTACs can recruit RNA-degrading enzymes, and shares insights on targeting viral genomes, including strategies for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2, showcasing the promising future of RNA therapeutics in combating various diseases.

Dr. Maxwell Scott, entomologist and expert in genetic pest management at North Carolina State University, delves into the menace of the screw worm, a parasitic insect affecting livestock. He shares insights on the historic success of the sterile insect technique in eradication efforts and discusses the current resurgence in North America. Fascinatingly, he explores innovative gene drive technologies being developed to manage screw worm populations while addressing public perception and regulatory challenges surrounding these genetic solutions.

Dr. Jackie Douglas, a medical oncology fellow at Johns Hopkins specializing in neoantigens and cancer immunotherapy, dives into the promising world of personalized cancer treatments. She explains how neoantigens, unique to cancer cells, can be targeted for therapy. The discussion includes HLA alleles' roles, challenges like patient variability, and the exciting potential of mRNA vaccines in clinical trials. Douglas emphasizes the need for affordable therapies and shares insights on future advancements, all while maintaining a hopeful outlook for cancer patients.

Derek Small, co-founder and CEO of Syndeo, discusses groundbreaking advances in treating neurological disorders, including the Boost platform for drug development. He highlights the critical role of synaptic function in mental health and the promise of event-driven pharmacology. The conversation also delves into the potential of psychedelics for therapeutic use and the innovative drug Zalquistinol, currently in trials for depression and Alzheimer's. Small advocates for destigmatizing mental health while emphasizing the need for targeted therapies and innovative strategies in drug discovery.

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.