Unexplainable

Dylan Matthews, a senior correspondent at Vox’s Future Perfect, shares his audacious story of purposefully infecting himself with malaria for research. He discusses the revolutionary challenge trials that test vaccine efficacy by exposing volunteers to the virus. The conversation dives into the ethical dilemmas surrounding such choices, exploring the balance between sacrifice and scientific progress. Matthews emphasizes the urgent need for effective vaccines and the critical role of dedicated volunteers in advancing medical science, especially in underserved regions.

Mark Blumberg, a behavioral neuroscientist at the University of Iowa, challenges the traditional view of dreams and their role in sleep. He discusses how muscle twitches in REM sleep may actually enhance sensory processing rather than symbolize dreaming. Blumberg explores the intricate layers of sleep, likening it to a Swiss Army knife with varied functions across species. He also reveals how understanding sleep can inform robot adaptability and memory processing, suggesting a fascinating connection between human sleep patterns and artificial intelligence.

Recent political changes are putting American health and science agencies under pressure. Funding cuts and research censorship have left scientists feeling anxious about their future. The ramifications on public health research are profound, threatening the innovation landscape. The crucial role of agencies like NIH and NSF in supporting unconventional research is emphasized as essential for breakthroughs. Amidst challenges, there's a mix of alarm and optimism, highlighting legal efforts to address funding crises and encouraging public engagement.

Kumiko Ninomiya, known as the 'Umami Mama', is a pioneering biochemist who played a vital role in labeling umami as the fifth basic taste. She discusses how umami enriches culinary experiences and the historical controversies surrounding MSG. The conversation dives into the evolution of taste, exploring the potential for more than just five recognized flavors. Emerging concepts like fat as a sixth taste highlight the scientific excitement in taste perception, suggesting a more complex world of flavors yet to be explored.

John Priscu, a microbiologist at Montana State University and expert in extreme life forms, shares thrilling insights about the hidden ecosystems beneath Antarctic ice. He discusses the unique subglacial lakes, like Lake Willans, revealing diverse microbial life that thrives without sunlight. The conversation also links these discoveries to the hunt for extraterrestrial life on moons like Europa, emphasizing the innovative technologies being developed for exploration. Climate change's impact on these fragile ecosystems adds a pressing urgency to the research.

Explore the fascinating world of genetic libraries, crucial for developing vaccines and enhancing crops. Dive into the ethical dilemmas of biopiracy, where wealthier nations benefit from the biodiversity of poorer countries. Discover how digital platforms have revolutionized genetic sequencing, making vital information more accessible. Hear about the push for equitable benefit-sharing agreements and the ongoing debates surrounding accountability in the realm of genetic resources. This journey into science illuminates both opportunities and challenges in our interconnected world.

Oshan Jarow, a staff writer at Vox’s Future Perfect, dives deep into the intriguing debate surrounding AI and consciousness. He discusses why some scientists believe AI might soon achieve awareness, while others argue it’s impossible. The conversation explores ethical dilemmas of AI potentially feeling pain and parallels between AI and animal welfare. Jarow raises crucial questions about how we measure consciousness and the implications of developing machines that could genuinely experience emotions.

Anahad O’Connor, a seasoned health columnist at the Washington Post, joins researcher Saul Justin Newman from the Oxford Institute for Population Aging. They explore the impact of various diets on health and longevity, dissecting the myths versus realities of popular diets like keto and veganism. The conversation highlights the intriguing concept of Blue Zones, renowned for their high life expectancy, while revealing the complexities and inconsistencies in diet research. Listeners are left pondering how dietary wisdom shapes our quests for longevity.

Dive into captivating mysteries that challenge our understanding of identity and relationships with a deep look at microchimerism. Explore the urgent organ shortage crisis and innovative solutions like genetically modified pig organs. Discover the ethical dilemmas around transplanting these organs and the emotional intricacies faced by families. The discussion also ventures into the challenges of long-term space exploration, revealing what astronauts truly endure as humanity pushes the boundaries of the unknown.

Dogs were the first domesticated animal in history, emerging from wolves some 20,000 years ago. But how did wolves become dogs? To find the answer, scientists have to play with a lot of puppies. (First published in 2023.)Guest: Kathryn Lord, evolutionary biology researcher at UMass Chan Medical SchoolFor show transcripts, go to vox.com/unxtranscriptsFor more, go to vox.com/unexplainableAnd please email us! unexplainable@vox.comWe read every email.Support Unexplainable by becoming a Vox Member today: vox.com/members Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices