The Naked Scientists Podcast

Jane Carlton, Director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, discusses the looming crisis in malaria management due to U.S. aid cuts. She highlights the dire impact of malaria on young children in Africa, the innovative strategies in research, and the potential of new vaccines. Carlton also touches on fascinating biology with the bone collector caterpillar, which adapts to its environment by camouflaging among spider webs. This episode combines a serious look at global health with the quirky side of nature.

In this edition of The Naked Scientists, Titans of Science continues with planetary scientist charged with analysing rock samples brought in from outer space, Sara Russell... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this edition of The Naked Scientists: Evidence of a carbon cycle on Mars has been unearthed by the Curiosity rover. What does it mean for the red planet's past habitability? Also, the cannabis-based painkiller as powerful as an opioid, but without the side effects. And, could fashion sense and a primitive sunscreen have been the deciding 'factor 50' which allowed us humans to outlast the Neanderthals... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

Marine biologist Richard Thompson, known for his groundbreaking work on microplastics, shares his journey from initial observations to pivotal research. He dives into the alarming effects of microplastics on marine life and human health, emphasizing the urgent need for action. The discussion also highlights the development of biodegradable alternatives and the challenges of effective plastic recycling. Thompson advocates for sustainable plastic solutions and stresses the importance of consumer education in reducing plastic waste.

The remarkable story of the first baby born from a transplanted uterus in the UK captures attention, highlighting the surgical intricacies and emotional journeys involved. Research reveals the shingles vaccine may reduce dementia risks, opening up new avenues in healthcare. Innovative drugs targeting mosquitoes could revolutionize malaria control. Lastly, a dive into Malta's ancient seafarers uncovers their advanced maritime skills and significant migrations, shedding light on early human history.

In this insightful discussion, Paul Dupre, Director of the Centre for Vaccine Research and a Professor of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at the University of Pittsburgh, dives into the alarming global resurgence of measles. He explores the virus's origins and its devastating effects on human immunity. Dupre emphasizes the urgent need for renewed vaccination efforts, especially in communities with declining rates. He also tackles the impact of misinformation on vaccine hesitancy, advocating for effective communication strategies to restore public trust in health initiatives.

In today's news podcast, a study shows a reduced effectiveness of vaccinations in babies who have antibiotics treatments early in life. Also, the world's smallest, light-powered pacemaker, and we learn the secrets of the broadclub cuttlefish's crab-catching colour display. Then, we follow the journey of miso paste up to the ISS and back to Earth again, and hear what it tastes like! Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

Take a deep breath. Yes, literally. And ask yourself: what's in the air I just inhaled? It's almost certain, with our modern lives and built, busy environments, that it contains a range of harmful particles. Whether it stems from city traffic or wildfires, air pollution has many sources, it affects all of us, and it has the potential to become much worse. So today, we're examining what constitutes a bad air day, the biggest producers of pollution, how we monitor the problem, and what can be done to improve matters. Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this edition of The Naked Scientists: the first transplant of a gene-modified pig liver into a human; also, the James Webb Space Telescope sees one of the first galaxies ever to exist, and it's very strange indeed; and scientists explain why we can't recall our early years... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this edition of The Naked Scientists, Antimicrobial Resistance, or AMR, is going under our microscope. What is it, how does it happen, what's the scale of the threat, and how can we fight back? Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists