

Nature Podcast
Springer Nature Limited
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 15, 2024 • 31min
Lizard-inspired building design could save lives
3D printing resin made from bodybuilding supplement, tiny parrots resort to kill due to housing shortages, researchers mimic lizards to prevent building collapse, advanced algorithm discovers thousands of asteroids, Google Cloud helps identify near-Earth asteroids, study reveals neuron structures in human brain, importance of understanding cortex for treating diseases.

6 snips
May 8, 2024 • 22min
Alphafold 3.0: the AI protein predictor gets an upgrade
Nuclear clocks revolutionize timekeeping accuracy, AlphaFold 3 predicts protein structures with DNA and RNA interactions, life on other planets may be purple, magnetic fluid for healthcare monitoring, AI tool advances protein function and drug discovery.

May 2, 2024 • 59min
Talking about sex and gender doesn't need to be toxic
Exploring the evolving landscape of sex and gender discussions in scientific research, addressing the complexities and nuances beyond binary perspectives. Scientists emphasize the importance of inclusivity, transparency, and accurate reporting in studies to bridge gaps in understanding. Discussions include gender differences in clinical trials, challenges of attributing gender to animals, and the fluid nature of sex chromosomes. Advocacy for more inclusive research practices and consideration of individual variations to improve healthcare outcomes for all.

May 1, 2024 • 25min
Dad's microbiome can affect offsprings' health — in mice
Podcast explores how geography impacts cancer risk through genetic mutations. Discusses sabre-toothed salmon with tusks and versatile fungus. Male mouse microbiome disruption affects offspring health with growth issues. Also covers lunar research, AI chatbot for gene editing, and new base editor technology.

14 snips
Apr 26, 2024 • 15min
Audio long read: Why loneliness is bad for your health
Exploring the negative health effects of chronic loneliness, including its impact on the brain and associations with conditions like depression and high blood pressure. Researchers delve into neural mechanisms to understand why social isolation can lead to poor health outcomes and discuss potential remedies such as social activities and exercise.

Apr 24, 2024 • 29min
How gliding marsupials got their 'wings'
Discover how portable optical clocks are revolutionizing timekeeping, the genetic secrets behind marsupial gliding membranes, AI overtraining for novel solutions, and the accidental creation of a freestanding 2D layer of gold atoms.

14 snips
Apr 19, 2024 • 38min
Living on Mars would probably suck — here's why
Kelly and Zach Weinersmith discuss the challenges of human settlement on Mars, including psychological hurdles, environmental obstacles, and legal complexities. They compare the feasibility of colonizing the moon versus Mars, emphasizing the unique health implications and required skill sets. The podcast delves into the need for genetic diversity, intensive agriculture, and the legal ambiguities surrounding resource extraction in space. Additionally, the speakers explore the complexities of space ownership, accident liabilities, and the importance of international regulation in space exploration.

10 snips
Apr 17, 2024 • 34min
Keys, wallet, phone: the neuroscience behind working memory
Discover the mysterious methane emissions from a cool brown dwarf. Learn about the fascinating workings of working memory and how distractions can impact it. Uncover the discovery of bitter taste receptors dating back 450 million years and a planet with a rainbow phenomenon.

Apr 10, 2024 • 23min
The 'ghost roads' driving tropical deforestation
Researchers uncover over a million kilometers of hidden 'ghost roads' in tropical forests driving deforestation. Climate change triggers record hailstorms and astronomers detect starquakes. Groundbreaking trial grows 'mini livers' in lymph nodes. Genetic survey explores the basis of left-handedness and ambidexterity.

12 snips
Apr 5, 2024 • 16min
Audio long read: Why are so many young people getting cancer? What the data say
Exploring the alarming increase in early-onset cancer cases among adults under 50 globally, researchers are searching for answers beyond the usual suspects like obesity and early screening. Chapters delve into disparities in colorectal cancer, genetic, immune, and microbiome factors in young patients, and challenges in understanding rising cancer rates in South Korea and Japan.