
Nature Podcast
The Nature Podcast brings you the best stories from the world of science each week. We cover everything from astronomy to zoology, highlighting the most exciting research from each issue of the Nature journal. We meet the scientists behind the results and provide in-depth analysis from Nature's journalists and editors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Feb 28, 2024 • 26min
Could this one-time ‘epigenetic’ treatment control cholesterol?
Researchers discuss the source of radiation that lifted the 'fog' in the early Universe, exploring dwarf galaxies' role. Controlling cholesterol with epigenetics shows promise in mice, silencing a gene linked to high cholesterol. Other topics include inscriptions hinting at Basque language origins and laser etching on soap films.

Feb 26, 2024 • 25min
Audio long read: Chimpanzees are dying from our colds — these scientists are trying to save them
Scientists are working to protect chimpanzees from human diseases which pose a major threat to great ape populations. The podcast delves into the challenges of enforcing guidelines during tourist visits and the importance of conservation efforts to prevent disease transmission. Highlighting the urgency for behavioral change and increased stakeholder understanding to safeguard chimpanzees in Uganda.

Feb 23, 2024 • 14min
How whales sing without drowning, an anatomical mystery solved
An exploration of how baleen whales produce their iconic deep tones, revealing the evolution of their vocal structures. Discover how baleen whales use a modified larynx to create vocalizations, but are limited by their anatomy in escaping anthropogenic noise pollution. Insights into the challenges faced by whales due to human-generated noise and the need for regulations to protect them.

4 snips
Feb 21, 2024 • 31min
Why are we nice? Altruism's origins are put to the test
Explore the evolutionary origins of human altruism, with a new study testing theories on cooperation. Discover an ancient Stone Age wall in the Baltic Sea and fun teasing behavior in great apes. Learn about optical discs revolutionizing data storage with massive capacity. Uncover the truth behind a fake fossil discovery and delve into the creation of meat rice for innovative food solutions.

Feb 14, 2024 • 22min
Smoking changes your immune system, even years after quitting
Smoking's long-term effects on immunity, T-cell response lingers after quitting; Purple smoke from ancient gold explosive, altruistic act by a male elephant seal; Tracking fake papers through authorship analysis; Discovery of ocean on a moon of Saturn

Feb 9, 2024 • 15min
Why we need to rethink how we talk about cancer
Cancer should be categorized based on molecular and genetic mechanisms instead of body parts. Changing how we name cancers can lead to tailored and efficient treatments. Naming based on organ of origin causes problems with clinical trials and training. A biology-based approach improves patient outcomes. Barriers like cost and perception can be overcome with AI and education. The speakers express gratitude and promote research opportunities.

Feb 7, 2024 • 35min
Cancer's power harnessed — lymphoma mutations supercharge T cells
Using mutations found in cancer cells to enhance the function of therapeutic T cells in targeting solid tumors, how climate change affects high-altitude environmental records in Switzerland, advancements in battery technology for electric vehicles

Feb 4, 2024 • 17min
Cervical cancer could be eliminated: here's how
Experts discuss challenges of eliminating cervical cancer in low and middle income countries, including lack of funding, staffing, and infrastructure. The difficulties of rolling out HPV vaccination and the impact of vaccine hesitancy are examined. The importance of targeting adolescents for vaccination and integrating health interventions is emphasized, as well as the significance of government understanding, reliable data, and advocating for prioritizing adolescent health in addressing cervical cancer.

Jan 31, 2024 • 29min
Ancient DNA solves the mystery of who made a set of stone tools
New genetic analysis reveals that ancient stone tools found in northern Europe were made by Homo sapiens, challenging previous beliefs about who crafted them. The podcast also explores the evolution of mountain ranges without roots, the slow growth of neurons in the human brain, and the potential of gene therapy for treating deafness.

Jan 26, 2024 • 12min
Audio long read: Long COVID is a double curse in low-income nations — here’s why
The podcast discusses the prevalence and challenges of long COVID in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting the lack of research, awareness, and treatments. It explores economic disparities and healthcare limitations in Brazil, Iran, and South Africa. The podcast also delves into the mechanisms of long COVID, the need for a global approach, and the difficulties of recruiting diverse participants. Additionally, it examines the potential inequalities in accessing treatments in low-income nations and the challenges faced by healthcare systems in providing intensive care.