Nature Podcast

Yosuke Togashi, a researcher from Okayama University, investigates how mitochondrial transfer impacts T-cells and cancer. The discussion reveals striking disparities in global academic hiring practices, potentially locking out talent based on regional standards. Togashi highlights the emerging understanding of cancer cells transferring dysfunctional mitochondria to immune cells, which hampers immune responses. Additionally, exciting research on hidden tattoos in mummified skin and a new flu treatment adds a captivating twist to the conversation!

Susana Vasquez-Torres, a researcher at the University of Washington, discusses her groundbreaking work on AI-designed antivenoms for snakebites, aiming to tackle a major public health crisis. She reveals how machine learning has enabled the design of proteins that could offer effective treatment in resource-limited settings. Jeff Tollefson, a Nature journalist, shares urgent insights into Earth's temperature surpassing 1.5°C for the first time, stressing the implications for climate policy and immediate action needed to combat climate change.

A controversial COVID study promoting hydroxychloroquine has been retracted after years of debate, raising concerns about research ethics. New findings reveal that healthy skin is not just a barrier but actively produces antibodies, paving the way for needle-free vaccines. Meanwhile, estimates suggest Jupiter's moon Europa has a much thicker icy crust, which may hinder the search for extraterrestrial life. Additionally, fascinating insights into the evolution of human running abilities highlight our ancient relatives and their remarkable locomotion capabilities.

Miryam Naddaf, a reporter for Nature, dives into the exciting scientific landscape of 2025. She highlights upcoming lunar missions aimed at mapping resources on the Moon, crucial for climate science. The discussion touches on the impact of political changes, especially regarding climate commitments, and how they might shape scientific innovation. Naddaf also explores advancements in drug treatments and breakthrough physics projects, like CERN’s potential circular collider, which could redefine healthcare and exploration.

Discover the intriguing impact of the Ig Nobel Prize, a whimsical award that celebrates unusual scientific research. Hear how a neuroscientist's unexpected recognition transformed her career and brought joy to a London taxi driver. Explore personal anecdotes from past winners, revealing how humor can enhance public engagement and dramatically boost recognition in science. This entertaining discussion dives into the blend of laughter and insight that makes unconventional research memorable.

Melting polar ice is shaking up our timekeeping systems, with potential ripple effects on technology. The conversation turns to the nuances of sex and gender in health research, promoting inclusive language and understanding. A fascinating look at how psilocybin alters brain connections highlights its promising therapeutic potential. Meanwhile, innovative solutions are proposed to save endangered frogs from a deadly fungal disease, and we explore challenges in AI representation and budget cuts affecting lunar missions.

Andy Mitchinson and Abbey Clopper, esteemed editors of Nature News and Views, dive into groundbreaking scientific revelations. They discuss Saturn's moon Mimas, revealing its surprising subsurface ocean that challenges previous theories. The conversation shifts to innovative methods of extracting iron from toxic red mud, presenting a potential game changer for sustainable steel. They also explore new engineering principles that enhance structural resilience, alongside the cutting-edge advancements in genome editing with programmable RNA-guided enzymes.

Richard Van Norden, Nature's Features Editor, joins to discuss the highlights of 2024's scientific advancements. They chat about the impact of Ozempic in tackling obesity and diabetes, alongside entertaining yearly quizzes on major scientific breakthroughs. Insights on CAR T-cell therapies offer a glimpse into innovative cancer treatments. Highlighting Nature's 10, they celebrate key figures in science, including a savvy economist stepping into politics. Packed with humor and informative content, this conversation is both captivating and thought-provoking!

Dive into the intriguing world of species naming! The discussion highlights how names can carry historical baggage, such as those honoring dictatorial figures. Explore the case of a beetle named after Adolf Hitler and the debate over renaming organisms tied to controversial legacies. The podcast also tackles the balance between honoring scientific history and promoting sensitivity in nomenclature. Plus, it emphasizes the need for inclusivity in future naming practices. It's a thought-provoking journey into the power of names in science and society.

Davide Castelvecchi, a physics reporter at Nature, dives into groundbreaking research on mRNA therapy that reverses pre-eclampsia in mice. He discusses how this innovative technique uses lipid nanoparticles to enhance blood flow, offering hope for maternal and fetal health. Castelvecchi also highlights experiments that differentiate between mouse and human placentas, and advances in synthetic biology. The conversation further touches on recent breakthroughs in quantum computing, revealing how error correction could enable quantum systems to outpace classical computers.