Talking Biotech is a weekly podcast that uncovers the stories, ideas and research of people at the frontier of biology and engineering.
Each episode explores...
Synthetic Biology and Natural Products - Dr. Philipp Zerbe
This conversation explores the intersection of natural products and synthetic biology, emphasizing the importance of science communication and outreach. Julia Ball shares her passion for connecting the public with plant science, while Dr. Philip Zerbe discusses the potential of synthetic biology in producing valuable natural products, particularly terpenoids. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities in educating the public about biotechnology and the role of synthetic biology in sustainable drug production. In this conversation, Dr. Philipp Zerbe discusses the intersection of synthetic biology and natural products, focusing on the advancements in omics technologies and their role in bioactivity screening and pathway engineering. He highlights the recent breakthroughs in Taxol production, the complexities of intellectual property in synthetic biology, and the varying consumer perceptions of bioengineered products. Additionally, he provides insights into career guidance for students interested in these fields, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience and networking.
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38:55
Designing New Proteins with A.I. - Stefan Van Grieken
In this episode of the Talking Biotech podcast, Dr. Kevin Folta speaks with Steph van Grieken, CEO of Cradle, about the revolutionary intersection of AI and protein engineering. They discuss the central role of proteins in biological systems, the innovative software Cradle is developing to enhance protein design, and the implications of these advancements for therapeutics and industrial applications. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations and potential misuse of this technology, as well as the future of AI in biology and its impact on environmental sustainability.
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37:08
Garden Biotech- The Purple Tomato, Dr. Nathan Pumplin
In this episode of the Talking Biotech podcast, Dr. Kevin Folta discusses the introduction of the Purple Tomato by Norfolk Healthy Produce. Dr. Nathan Pumplin, CEO of Norfolk Healthy Produce, shares insights on the development, consumer reception, and regulatory landscape surrounding this innovative product. The conversation highlights the importance of consumer education and the potential for biotechnology to address health and nutritional needs. Dr. Pumplin discusses the technology and genetic engineering involved, the importance of plant breeding, and the health benefits associated with anthocyanins. He emphasizes the company's commitment to creating high-quality products while addressing public perceptions of GMOs and the future of biotechnology in agriculture.
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38:51
Disinformation Warfare Against Food, Farming and Medicine - Dr. Kevin Folta
Social media teems with false information about food and farming. Influencers cover Instagram and Facebook with claims that food is poison and farmers are "dousing" crops in dangerous chemicals. It is a disinformation campaign that is founded on the fact that Americans make poor food and lifestyle choices, but instead of blaming our behaviors, they blame food and medicine, pushing bogus high-profit alternatives. But is there something nefarious here? Has this online suspicion of our medical and food systems seeded by interests wishing to turn citizens against farmers and regulators, opting instead for fake alternatives and bogus nostrums? It is a viable hypothesis. The war on seed oils, glyphosate and genetically engineered crops has re-ignited, despite minimal, if any, risk. Senate testimony by podcaster and "integrative nutritionist" Courtney Swan is dissected to demonstrate how wildly incorrect these folks are-- when speaking before a US Senate commitee! This is how disinformation spread and now is being used to influence the highest eschelons of federal government. This all appears to be science and reason losing a damaging disinformation campaign using the internet and its complicit influencers to harm food and national security.
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1:13:38
Mpox- The Virus, Transmission and Treatment - John Rizk
In this episode of the Talking Biotech podcast, Kevin Folta interviews John Rizk, a pharmacist and epidemiologist, about M-Pox (formerly known as monkeypox). They discuss the emergence of M-Pox, its characteristics, transmission, symptoms, and recovery. The conversation also covers risk factors, diagnosis, vaccination strategies, treatment options, and the importance of health equity in access to vaccines. John emphasizes the need for more research and randomized control trials to better understand and manage M-Pox.
Talking Biotech is a weekly podcast that uncovers the stories, ideas and research of people at the frontier of biology and engineering.
Each episode explores how science and technology will transform agriculture, protect the environment, and feed 10 billion people by 2050.
Interviews are led by Dr. Kevin Folta, a professor of molecular biology and genomics.
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