Nice Genes!

The podcast delves into the intriguing concept of horizontal gene transfer and antibiotic resistance in bacteria. It also explores the venomous nature of jellyfish stings and the devastating impact of white flies on crops. The episode discusses the use of genetic modification for pest control and the controversy surrounding GMOs.

Challenging assumptions is important in science, as assumptions can misguide research. 'Nice Genes!' Season 3 explores assumptions in genetics and society, including whether our DNA is truly our own, societal views about weight and health, and the genetic puzzle of who we are and love.

Dr. Kaylee Byers, a scientist, and Phoebe Melvin, a producer, discuss the surprising story of a crocodile named Kokita who achieved virgin birth. They delve into the researchers' efforts to incubate the eggs and the result of a fully formed baby crocodile with identical DNA to its mother. They also explore the ability of certain species to reproduce asexually and its implications for ancient reptiles like dinosaurs and pterosaurs.

The podcast discusses the dangers of prolonged sitting and the formation of blood clots. They explore the role of the protein HSP47 in blood clotting during hibernation in brown bears. The downregulation of HSP47 in bears during hibernation and in humans with spinal cord injuries or immobilization is also discussed, with potential benefits for patients requiring extended periods of inactivity.

Dr. Aria Hahn, a scientist specializing in repairing environmental damage, discusses the potential of microbes in creating renewable resources and repairing areas devastated by the climate crisis. Dr. Christian Rinke shares his discovery of a wriggly solution to plastic pollution. The podcast explores the vital role of microbes, their use in the mining industry, and their ability to degrade plastic. It also highlights the scope of the plastic pollution issue and the importance of collective action.

Scientists discuss the potential dangers of ancient viruses being released from the Arctic permafrost due to climate change. They explore the challenges of tracking and understanding the evolution of diseases. The podcast emphasizes the importance of data sharing, collaboration, and proactive measures in disease preparedness.

Dr. Shayle Matsuda, a marine biologist, discusses the effects of environmental stresses on coral reefs. Acoustic inventions and genomics are explored to restore and monitor coral reefs. The significance of kelp forests, coral diversity, and collaborative efforts in conservation are also discussed.

This podcast explores the mysteries of the ocean depths, including the unique songs of whales and their cultural exchange. It delves into the quest to find the 'Loneliest Whale' and the artistic creations inspired by its story. The impact of increased noise on marine mammals and their evolutionary history are also discussed.

In this Halloween-inspired episode, they explore de-extinction and the resurrection of extinct species. They discuss the history and extinction of the Tasmanian tiger, efforts to save Tasmanian devils from extinction and reintroduce them to the wild. They also delve into the use of genomics in understanding diverse species, the origins of the Thylocene project, and the importance of conservation genetics in protecting the planet.

Protecting Local Wildlife Icons What do you get when you cross a polar bear and a grizzly… and why should you care?In this episode of Nice Genes!, host Dr. Kaylee Byers and National Geographic explorer Dr. Christine Wilkinson look into the mysterious case of pizzly bears, a rare hybrid between polar bears and grizzlies. Together they speak with Dr. David Paetkau, whose team unravelled this strange genomic crossbreeding after receiving more and more sightings coming from the Arctic Circle. Is this hybridization occurring because of climate change? They also speak with Wiuikinuxv scientist Jennifer Walkus, who gained local notoriety for her efforts in ending the trophy hunt of grizzly bears in British Columbia. Special thanks to Gaelen Krause, Captain of the Island Odyssey with Bluewater Adventures and Ellie Lamb, Naturalist and Hiking Guide.Click here for this episode's Learn-A-Long!Resources:1. Lions, tigers, and Whatsitbears | zoohistories.com: 2. Recent Hybridization between a Polar Bear and Grizzly Bears in the Canadian Arctic | JSTOR3. Arctic hybrids not a good sign, warn scientists | Canadian Broadcast Corporation (CBC)4. "Bears Teach Us" -- Sharing With All Our Relations | Watershed Sentinel 5. DNA analysis of grizzly bears aligns with Indigenous languages | raincoast.org: 6. How Indigenous Knowledge is helping to protect Canada's grizzlies | National Geographic7. Pizzly or grolar bear: grizzly-polar hybrid is a new result of climate change | The Guardian8. Province ends controversial grizzly bear trophy hunt | Global News9. Glacial ice supports a distinct and undocumented polar bear subpopulation persisting in late 21st-century sea-ice conditions | Science10. Sockey salmon collapse due to lack of food, study says | Canadian Broadcast Corporation (CBC)11. One Health Basics | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.