Naked Genetics, from the Naked Scientists - RNA vaccines, privacy, and penguins

RNA vaccines, privacy, and penguins

12/17/20 • 24 min

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Naked Genetics, from the Naked Scientists

The first group of people in the world have received a 'genetic' vaccine against the coronavirus. What is it, and how does it work? Naked Scientist Chris Smith breaks it down and addresses your concerns. Plus, why some genes have to change rapidly just to stay the same; a new way to keep functional genetic information private; and three new species of penguin arrive on the scene... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

Previous Episode

Mink, Ivory, & a Disease Discovered Backwards

It's a regular Noah's Ark: from the coronavirus strains that have been spreading through minks, to a new DNA test that can track poached elephant ivory, to the genetics of a very useful - and very inbred - cat. Plus: scientists have discovered a brand new genetic disease, via an unlikely approach and an even unlikelier coincidence... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

Next Episode

Identical Twins: Not Identical?

Meet the small DNA differences that make their mark by existing in the magical period of early development. We'll hear how mutations in the very first stages of human embryos have bizarre consequences for identical twins; and how even earlier in the process, sperm use selfish genes to get ahead of the competition. Plus, an immunologist untangles mRNA COVID vaccines, from efficacy numbers to delayed booster shots... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists