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Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta

Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta

488 episodes — Page 5 of 10

Ep 292Peptoids as Therapeutic Tools

Peptides have increasingly emerging roles in cellular signaling and anti-microbial applications. Peptioids are cousins of their active peptide analogs, only synthesized with a durable bond that helps the molecule evade cellular turnover mechanisms. Dr. Gill Diamond of the University of Louisville discusses the chemistry of peptoids and their applications as anti-virals, including targeting SARS-CoV2. The pipeline of new compounds is discussed with a myriad of potential application in human disease. Dr. Diamond also serves on as a scientific advisor to Maxwell Biosciences. Maxwell Biosciences on Twitter# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

May 15, 202130 min

Ep 291Kleptoplasty and a Solar-Powered Animal

A solar-powered animal? There are species of sea slugs that consume algae, then integrate the chloroplasts into their own digestive cells. There they function to fix carbon and essentially power the organism. This phenomenon is known as kelptoplasty- stealing the autotrophic capacities of one organism for the slug’s benefit. This week’s podcast is a conversation with Dr. Sonia Cruz, a Principal Researcher at the University of Averio. Her work seeks to unravel many of the intriguing questions about this unusual relationship between photosynthesis and animals.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

May 8, 202134 min

Ep 290Methylation Clocks, Aging and Disease

The basis of aging and long-term degenerative disease have been formidable questions for scientists. Over the last decade several “methylation clocks” have been devised to examine modifications of DNA that match well with developmental state and disease presentation. Dr. Ekaterina Rogaeva from the University of Toronto studies methylation clocks, especially as they associate with specific neurodegenerative diseases. The discoveries in this discipline delineate diagnostic patterns of epigenetic changes that could be critical in disease prediction and treatment, as well as monitoring overall health.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

May 1, 202149 min

Ep 289The GalSafe Pig and Xenotransplantation

Last week’s episode covered Alpha Gal Syndrome, the tick-induced allergy to beef and pork. The same immunological response could also limit a recipient’s access to xenography or xenotransplantation, that is, the introduction of pig and cow tissues and organs for human benefit. From valves to tendons to organs, the use of non-human animal parts is becoming increasingly common, but so is the instance of immune response to them due to a response to alpha gal. Today’s guest is Dr. John Bianchi, VP of Product Development at Revivicor. Revivicor has developed the GalSafe Pig, a genetic engineering step that eliminates the production of Alpha-Gal, making organs compatible with sensitive recipients. While solving the key problem of xenographic transplants and tissue donation, the pork may also be consumed without incident. Again science rises to solve an important problem.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Apr 24, 202135 min

Ep 288Alpha Gal Syndrome

You find a tick on your skin and remove it. The next day you eat a sausage and wind up in the emergency room in anaphylaxis. After that, you can’t eat beef or pork without experiencing an intense allergic reaction. This is alpha-gal syndrome, an allergy induced by the saliva of ticks bearing a simple oligosaccharide (compound sugar), and the body mounts an immune response against it. The same oligosaccharide is also found in beef and pork. This strange condition is becoming increasingly more common. Dr. Jeffery Wilson is a physician at the University of Virginia who studies alpha-gal syndrome. We discuss this strange disorder, and consider strategies to solve it that will be discussed in the next episode.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Apr 17, 202126 min

Ep 287Bioluminescence, Antibiotic Resistance, and Science Communication

Today’s podcast is an interview with New Zealander of the Year Dr. Siouxsie Wiles. Dr. Wiles’ program uses bioluminesence as a marker to follow bacterial growth and disease progression. Her work seeks to identify new antimicrobial compounds. However, Dr. Wiles has become a go-to person in the discussion of COVID19, and has led public discourse on the realities of the pandemic. Her written work, video and cartoons around COVID19 have contributed to New Zealand’s low incidence rate, and world leadership in how to handle a pandemic. We discuss her work and efforts in science communication.Follow Dr. Wiles on Twitter: @SiouxsieW Her website is here Some of the COVID19 cartoons with Toby Myers can be seen here. Dr. Wiles TEDx Talk.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Apr 10, 20211h 10m

Ep 286Identifying Rare Compounds with A.I.

While genomics approaches have opened a universe of new compounds in plants, the vast majority remain uncharacterized. Brightseed has employed an artificial intelligence platform to scan for novel compounds, with a goal to identify new chemicals that may play a role in human health. Today’s podcast features Dr. Jim Flatt, CEO and Co-Founder of Brightseed. He discusses the company’s pilot products and the pipeline of compounds that may enhance human health. www.brightseedbio.com # COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Apr 3, 202150 min

Ep 285Your DNA Sequence, Benefits and Risks

Your DNA contains all of the information that makes you, you. With increasing understanding of the genetic basis of disease, the information in every cell may help anticipate, correct, or otherwise treat latent medical issues. The good news is that the cost of obtaining your personal DNA sequence is now less than the cost of a couple of concert tickets. At the same time, how is that information safeguarded? Who has access to it? Can it be used to exclude you from insurance coverage or open the door to genetic discrimination? Today’s guests are the CEO and CSO of Nebula Genomics. CEO Kamal Obbad and CSO Dennis Grishin share their insights into the benefits of personalized sequencing, along with a discussion of how they mitigate risk of malicious dissemination and/or use of genetic data.Follow Nebula Genomics on Twitter. Follow Kamal Obbad on Twitter. Follow Dennis Grishin on Twitter. Here is the website for Nebula Genomics.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Mar 27, 20211h 3m

Ep 284Combating Vaccine Hesitancy

The COVID19 vaccines were produced in record time, an amazing feat. However, additional challenges have been revealed in their distribution. Perhaps the most formidable barrier is the very last one– executing the vaccination. For years anti-vaccination groups have soiled the internet and public discourse with false or exaggerated claims of vaccine dangers. They have appealed to the emotional weak spots of concerned parents and the conspiratorial leanings of fringe science and politics to forward their crooked cause. Dr. Rahul Gupta is the Chief Medical and Health Officer of March of Dimes, and organization with a commitment to child and mother health that started when the scourge of polio ravaged so many. We discuss the problem of vaccine hesitancy and philosophies to change hearts and minds over emotional influence.March of Dimes website: www.marchofdimes.org/ Dr. Rahul Gupta: DrGuptaMD March of Dimes: MODTwitter# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Mar 20, 202128 min

Ep 283Misinformation vs. An Honest Conversation

This week’s podcast is a dissection of another popular podcast that features self-proclaimed experts in genetic engineering (familiarly GMO), and the falsehoods they propagate. Podcasts are great conduits to spread scientific information, but non-scientific views thrive also. It is amazing to listen to the bad information, and the participants’ willing acceptance and amplification that goes unchallenged. The episode is not mentioned by name, nor are the participants. This is not a personal criticism. I present a point-by-point refutation of their claims to show how misinformation is propagated inside echo chambers, and the lack of critical analysis that is undertaken. It is unfortunate, because the folks in this podcast likely have the best intentions at heart, they just don’t know anything about the topic they criticize. They then use a healthy pipeline to provide false information that confirms the biases of their audience. This is why we can’t have nice things.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Mar 13, 20211h 2m

Ep 282An App to Identify On-Target Gene Editing Variation

At its core, gene editing works to break gene function by creating errors in a DNA sequence at a specific location. The process works by creating a precise cut that is repaired by the cell’s repair mechanisms, and those processes can be error prone. Those errors are the basis of the gene’s disruption. But in a population of cells, how do you account for and catalog all of the changes? Kevin Bloh is a research associate and a Ph.D. student with Christiana Care / University of Delaware. He describes computational tool that help define the variation around gene edited sites. The new tools help refine cells possibly destined for research or therapeutic applications.DECODR software link. www.decordr.org# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Mar 6, 202127 min

Ep 281COVID19 Testing and Personal Cancer Screenings

One of the major failures of addressing the COVID19 pandemic is the breakdown of testing. The NFL and White House were able to maintain business as usual because of daily, accurate testing. When the disease is detected, its spread can be controlled. Jo Bhakdi of Quantgene talks about testing and how his company has scaled up testing solutions to at least apply them commercially to businesses wishing to maintain operations and protect their employees. We talk about testing and how it may be scaled to a national level. In the second half we talk about early cancer detection in a blood draw, an exciting possibility that would save lives and money through the earliest possible detection of several major cancers.Website: https://chooseserenity.com/covidFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SameDayCOVIDTestinghttps://www.instagram.com/choose_serenity/https://twitter.com/quantgeneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/choose_serenity/Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/choose_serenity/https://twitter.com/quantgene# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Feb 27, 20211h 0m

Ep 280Greenpeace Beginnings, and Golden Rice

Dr. Patrick Moore was a founding member of Greenpeace. In the years past its inception he worked tirelessly on ecological issues. Over time, he saw the group’s positions as less than scientific, leading to his defection. Soon after he became a leading advocate for the deployment of Golden Rice, the pro-Vitamin A rice that was invented to alleviate blindness and illness caused by a missing micronutrient in the Developing World. We discuss his roots, his efforts for Golden Rice, and conclude with his new book which addresses his controversial stance on climate change.Follow Dr. Moore on Twitter: @EcoSenseNow Golden Rice Project: www.goldenrice.org The link to his new book# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Feb 20, 20211h 28m

Ep 279New Technology to Save Bananas

Bananas and other tropical crops have tremendous value, not just to farmers in the Developing World, but also as products that are enjoyed widely in highly industrialized nations. However, crops like bananas and coffee are threatened by pathogens that could severely curtail cultivation and availability. Tropic Biosciences is taking on these problems using a unique approach– using gene editing to adjust genetics in a way that attacks the pathogen without consequence in the original plant itself. Dr. Eyal Maori is the Chief Science Officer and co-founder of Tropic Biosciences, and discusses the problem and their innovative approach.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Feb 13, 202148 min

Ep 278Gene Editing and Recovery from Radiation

Radiation is a natural energy that constantly bombards us. At the same time we have harnessed its power for medical imaging, therapeutics, energy and warfare. Collateral damage from radiation exposure, even in critical therapeutic contexts, can have profound effects on cellular health and ultimately survival. Dr. Fyodor Urnov of the University of Berkeley and the Innovative Genomics Institute is part of a team seeking to use gene editing as molecular medicine to speed recovery from radiation damage. The concept is to identify the genes that play a role in recovery, and then use gene editing strategies to temporarily excite them. The goal is to produce ways to recover from acute radiation sickness and exposure, which can have profound effects from radiotherapy to space travel. Follow Dr. Urnov on Twitter: @UrnovFyodor# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Feb 6, 202133 min

Ep 277SARS-CoV2: Immune Response and RNA Vaccines

The story of biotechnology’s response to the pandemic is an amazing one, and we continue coverage of these events as they arise. Today guest host Dr. Asha Brunings speaks with virus and immunology expert Dr. Brianne Baker. They discuss various topics of immunology with respect to the virus, discussing the new variants, the new vaccines, and a deep dive in to the mechanisms of immunity to the COVID19 symptom spectrum.Follow Dr. Barker ; @BioProfBarker Follow Dr. Brunings: @AshaBrunings And Dr. Barker is a co-host of the podcast This Week in Virology # COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jan 30, 202140 min

Ep 276Amazing Products from Algae

Algae efficiently convert carbon dioxide into oils, and they are now being bred to generate a suite of compounds that may be synthesized into fuel and polymers that are the basis of biodegradable plastics. Dr. Steve Mayfield is a Professor at the University of California San Diego, and the Director of the California Center for Algal Biotechnology. His work with algae shows how this rapidly growing photosynthetic organism can generate everything from fuels to plastics, from gasoline to surfboards to veggie burgers. Future plastics from algae promise to be biodegradable, curtailing the tremendous problem of plastic pollution.Dr. Mayfield’s Website Here # COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jan 23, 202150 min

Ep 275Targeting Cancers with Gene Editing

Certain aggressive cancers have profound effects on lifespan and quality of life. Patient prognosis can be grim, and therapies are harsh. Dr. Dan Peer of the University of Tel Aviv leads a group that has targeted gliomas and ovarian cancer with gene editing. Specifically, lipid nanoparticles are produced that target cancer cells, and introduce gene editing hardware that specifically inactivates genes required for cell division. The breakdown in proliferation impedes the cells’ growth. In animal models this single-treatment approach has shown benefit in increasing lifespan and presumably quality of life. We discuss the details of the technology and its potential translation to humans.Peer Lab Website Follow on Twitter: Peer_Lab# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jan 16, 202128 min

Ep 274GE Crops: What do Consumers Really Think?

Consumers have many opinions about food, and are continually bombarded by information from manufacturers to self-proclaimed experts. To gauge what they really think economists formulate approaches to learn what they are thinking and how they might behave in a purchasing scenario. Dr. Stuart Smyth has studied the interface between consumers and agricultural biotechnology. In this episode he presents the work from his group’s recent publication that discusses how consumers ultimately feel about purchasing products with ingredients from GE crops.Dr. Smyth’s website for SAIFood Follow him on Twitter @stuartsmyth66# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jan 9, 202136 min

Ep 2732020 Science Stories

The COVID-19 pandemic overshadowed an incredible year of innovation in biotechnology. Today’s podcast is a simulcast between the Science Facts and Fallacies with Cameron English and Talking Biotech. We discuss six science stories that were true highlights of an incredible year in science, along with stories that help us understand the state of the science/society interface.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jan 2, 202143 min

Ep 272Immune Response to COVID19 and its Vaccines

The COVID19 vaccines have the potential to squelch a dangerous pandemic. However, the public has many questions about their safety and efficacy that could limit their broad administration. Some of the questions concern the immune system, how it is affected by the vaccine, why two doses are necessary, and if the response is durable. Today’s podcast interviews Dr. Asha Brunings about the immunology of the COVID vaccine and the disease itself.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Dec 26, 202052 min

Ep 271mRNA Vaccine Mechanism, Safety, Communication

Two mRNA vaccines have been approved to lead the fight against COVID19. Both have been rapidly approved with Emergency Use Authorization, which does not build public trust. Ultimately compelling the vaccine hesitant to receive the vaccination may be the most significant hurdle in the process. The science is complete, now the challenge is public acceptance. Today’s podcast is more detail on the vaccine, how it works, and the reasons for hesitancy. The New England Journal of Medicine published clinical trials are described as well, along with strategies for effective communication. With Allison Kennedy and Dr. Asha Brunings# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Dec 20, 20201h 15m

Ep 270Apple Domestication and Variation

Apples seem rather ubiqutous, but what we see in the stores are just a sample of the genetic diversity that is out there. Today’s podcast discusses apple domestication and diversification with Dr. Norm Weeden. its early history and radiation are discussed. as well as an understanding of its genomics and genetics.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Dec 12, 202048 min

Ep 269The Ag Innovation Ecosystem

Despite its essential role in the economy and food security, agriculture has lagged behind with respect to adoption of new technology. This has happened for many reasons, partially from technology companies not realizing the opportunities in agriculture, and partially from high costs, and agriculture’s adherence to current practices. Dr. Adrian Percy has been a leader in agricultural reserach innovation and venture capital. We discuss the opportunities in agriculture and the limitations to successful deployment in the newest innovation.Follow Dr. Percy on Twitter: @adrianpercy His podcast is here: AgTech360 on iTunes Follow on Twitter: AgTech360 @AgTech360# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Dec 5, 202036 min

Ep 268What is an mRNA Vaccine?

mRNA vaccines have recently been in the news as an exciting potential preventative of SARS-CoV2. The technology seems new, but has roots in the 1990’s and a long history of maturation, plagued by technical barriers and skepticism. However, the efficacy demonstrated in clinical trials is promising, and suggests that mRNA-based strategies may have a prominent role as vaccines and therapeutics against some of our most insidious diseases. Resources for this podcast:Hilleman 1994 – a conceptual review of the potential for mRNA vaccines, predicing many of its challenges. Kariko et al, 2005 – This paper contains information on how mRNA may be modified to limit its inherent antigenic activity. Schlake et al., 2012 – A very good primer to the history and theory of mRNA vaccine development.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Nov 28, 202040 min

Ep 267Genetic Engineering in Animal Agriculture

Technology is driving innovation on the farm, and there have been significant efforts in improving livestock. Whether it was to produce a novel therapeutic or to solve a critical disease in animals, genetic engineering techniques have been used to target significant animal and human problems. There are many more successful innovations than commercial successes, as the regulatory climate is highly unfavorable to animal recombinant DNA technology. Dr. Mark Westhusin from Texas A&M University has been a leader in application of these tools to animal systems. In this episode we discuss the innovations, the regulations, and some of the solutions to animal agriculture problems worldwide.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Nov 21, 202036 min

Ep 266Gene Writing: New Tech to Correct Disease

Gene editing is a relatively new technology that has revolutionary applications in agriculture and medicine. The drawback to the technology is that it typically can only be used to disrupt a deleterious gene underlying a specific trait. Gene writing exploits a natural process in cells that allows researchers to install genes of interest, allowing replacement of damaged sequences that lead to negative health outcomes. Dr. Geoff von Maltzahn of Tessera describes what the new technology is and its most likely applications, particularly in the area of correcting genetic disease. Twitter: Tessera @TesseraTx Dr. Geoffrey von Maltzahn; @GVMaltzahn# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Nov 14, 202044 min

Ep 265Onion Domestication and Improvement

The onion has tremendous value in culinary applications all over the world. Where did it come from? What are the major breeding efforts and the important traits. Today’s podcast discusses the onion’s origin and future directions with Dr. Michael Havey, USDA-ARS/University of Wisconsin onion breeder. He speaks of the onion’s interesting background, its surprising genome, and traits that will define the onion of the future. A very interesting discussion of an important world food crop.Havey Lab Website # COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Nov 7, 202040 min

Ep 264What are Pumpkins?

On Halloween it is hard to remember that the pumpkins used for decoration are actually an important food for indigenous people of the Americas. There are multiple species of pumpkins that originated in North and South America, and primarily used for food. Dr. Harry Paris is a retired Senior Researcher and fruit breeder from the Volcani Center in Israel. We discuss the origins of pumpkins, how they moved in the New World, as well as the diversity and uses for this important fruit.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Oct 31, 202043 min

Ep 263The Ethics of Gene Editing

Gene editing moved quickly from the lab to application, so fast that the public is unsure how to think about it. We can cure disease, but are we playing with the natural order of things? These are questions that philosophers and ethicists wrestle with every day. in this week’s podcast we discuss the recent events in germline gene editing and how it is perceived by the public and by scientists.Follow Dr. Gyngell’s group: @Berg_MCRI# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Oct 24, 202037 min

Ep 262New Technology Same GMOs : My Commentary

This week two scientists pioneering gene editing won the Nobel Prize for Chemistry. Days later, a group of perennial naysayers gathered to denounce the technology. Gene editing is a revolutionary technology that already has had amazing effects on medicine and some applications in agriculture. The potential is limitless. But this new technology can install precise changes in genes, emulating natural mutations. They also cannot be detected, at least discernably from naturally-occurring mutations. This threatens the anti-GMO movement and its many tentacles, especially the Non-GMO Project, an organization that profits from brokering fear around safe food. These new technologies will evade their detection, making their meaningless label even more meaningless. The “esteemed panel” is composed of individuals that have been fighting technology for years. I play their roundtable discussion, and provide my commentary in real time, illuminating their deception, their disinformation, and tactics to create fear, uncertainty and doubt around a good technology.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Oct 17, 20201h 57m

Ep 261Vaccines Against Digestive Cancers

Digestive cancers are among the most common and deadly cancers in the world, comprising metastases of the colon, esophagus, stomach and rectum. These all share some cellular commonalities, namely the presentation of a molecular signature that can now be a target for engineered therapies. Dr. Adam Snook has been studying the fingerprints of gastric cancers and developing gene therapy approaches that target cancer cells. He discusses the technology, and describes how it works, and how the technology has changed in response to new findings. Dr. Snook provides a forward-thinking and hopeful view of how this technology may soon provide a needed therapy against common cancers.Follow Dr. Snook on Twitter: @adamsnookphd Dr. Snook’s website is here.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Oct 10, 202033 min

Ep 260Communicating Ag in an Attention Economy

Dr. Cami Ryan has examined the social factors that underlie decisions. Today these human tendencies are critical to understand, as everyone is bombarded by information through social media. How do issues like misinformation and disinformation erode the trust of scientific authorities? How do scientists and farmers, the experts, grab a piece of the pie in the new attention economy? Time is a commodity in short supply, and Dr. Ryan provides insight into how we can maximize our time in communicating science.Follow Dr. Ryan on Twitter: @CamiDRyan Here’s Cami’s website: # COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Oct 3, 20201h 1m

Ep 259Drug Targets for HIV

The human immunodeficiency virus remains prevalent in the population, yet it as silently moved out of the public’s consciousness, overshadowed by COVID19 and drug cocktails that can control its progression. Over the last three decades great progress has been made in understanding the virus and how it interacts with cells. This, plus the identification of genetic determinants of resistance to HIV have presented researchers with new drug targets. These may represent future therapies and perhaps cures. Today’s guest is Dr. Luca Vangelista from Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan. His research examines a protein receptor called CCR5 that is a critical player in the HIV infection cycle. Dr. Vangelista’s recent review may be accessed here.Here is Dr. Vangelista’s website.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Sep 26, 202038 min

Ep 258Rapid Detection of Bloodborne Pathogens

Sepsis is an infection of the blood. It can be critical and life threatening, and can complicate other co-morbidities. One of the main problems is that a number of bacterial and fungal pathogens can cause a septic state, so physicians are tasked with rapid identification of specific pathogens to render the most appropriate method of care. Unfortunately this usually involves broad treatments with multiple antibiotics and antifungals, as tests to identify discrete pathogens can take days. Dr. Alon Singer is the CEO of Helixbind. They have developed a new technology that allows rapid detection of bloodborne pathogens, eclipsing many of the barriers that previously led to longer detection times and greater patient risk. More information at www.helixbind.com# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Sep 19, 202032 min

Ep 257Plants Engineered to Remove Indoor Air Toxins

Indoor air contains a variety of harmful compounds. We invite many of these compounds into our homes in electronics, and others occur spontaneously from our water supply, and as homes become more energy efficient and dependent on air conditioning, these chemicals concentrate in our homes. Dr. Stuart Strand of the University of Washington explains what they are and their relative risk. He also describes a solution– plants genetically engineered to scrub these molecules from the indoor atmosphere. A variety of plants have been engineered to remove these molecules, including pothos ivy and tobacco, and he is setting his sights on crop plants that could affect the molecules that contribute to climate change.The work needs additional sponsors. Even a small donation to the University of Washington Foundation can help this research continue.Look for more details on the Plants Enhanced Facebook page.You also can donate directly to the program at the University of Washington here.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Sep 12, 202049 min

Ep 256Communicating COVID19; Careful with Cancellation

This week’s guest is the host! It was important to discuss communication tips during a pandemic, especially around popular myths and news stories involving COVID19. Kevin Folta provides counterarguments to today’s most prevalent claims around hydroxychloroquine, disease incidence, and the flu shot. It also marks five years since the New York Times story that portrayed Folta as a corporate patsy. While many aspects of his research and communications efforts thrive today, this deliberate act of cancel-culture now diminishes his impact in other arenas, such as discussing COVID19. This is a rallying cry for more scientists and science enthusiasts to engage the public with science communication.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Sep 6, 202053 min

Ep 255GE Mosquito Release in Florida

Florida is the canary in the coalmine for mosquito-transmitted disease in the USA. The Florida Keys are especially vulnerable. Traffic through this sensitive string of islands allows infected insects to be rapidly vectored to other areas of the keys, as well as to the mainland. Over the last decade there have been notable incidents of Zika, Chikunguna, Denge and other mosquito-borne diseases. Over the same time a self-limiting mosquito technology has been developed by Oxitec. The mosquitoes have been programmed with genetic changes that render the next generation unable to develop, and it has been extremely successful in Brazil and other locations. The technology is now poised for release in the keys and has received all needed approvals. Today’s podcast speaks with Meredith Fensom, the Head of Global Public Affairs with Oxitec. She discusses the technology, the release in Florida, and its potential risks and benefits.Here’s Oxitec’s website for the Florida Keys — There are MANY resources here on this page, too much to list. If you have questions you’ll find an answer here. And of course, I’m always glad to answer your questions. - Kevin # COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Aug 29, 202028 min

Ep 254Penguin Genomics and Adaptation

Penguins are charismatic, flightless, diving birds. While typically associated only with Antarctica, their center of origin, radiation and speciation has been widely debated. Dr. Juliana Vianna is part of an Antarctica Genomics Group at the Catholic University of Chile. Her team has analyzed the genomes of penguins and compared it against other data, including the fossil record. They have provided new information to inform our understanding of the evolution and distribution of this interesting group of birds.Follow Dr. Vianna on Twitter here. @Ju_A_Vianna Link to the paper in PNAS# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Aug 22, 202030 min

Ep 253The Race to the COVID19 mRNA Vaccine

Most experts agree that the COVID19 pandemic will not end until a vaccine is available. But traditionally, vaccines take a decade to develop and test. The crisis has ignited efforts from over 130 companies, all racing to develop vaccines to render the population immune to the virus. One exciting new development is the mRNA vaccine, a case where humans are injected with the genetic material of the virus, that ignites an immune response. The advantage of these vaccines is that they are easy to manufacture and quick to test. Boston Magazine Senior Editor Catherine Elton has followed the development of these vaccines, particularly from the company Moderna. They moved from RNA sequence to human trials in only 43 days demonstrating the speed by which these new strategies may be employed. We discuss the discoveries and the regulatory hurdles, along with public perception in what appears to be a rapid way to immunize large populations.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Aug 15, 202041 min

Ep 252Prions: Infectious Proteins

A number of strange, devastating and lethal diseases are caused by prions. The most famous of these disorders in animals is Bovine Spongiform Encelapathy, or “Mad Cow Disease”. Unlike other infectious agents like viruses, bacteria or fungi, prion-based diseases are caused by a misfolding of proteins resident in the body. Essentially, this is your own chemistry turning against itself. In this week’s podcast I speak with Dr. Cassandra Terry from London Metropolitan University. She speaks about prion related diseases, their causes, and how what is learned from prions has illuminated an understanding of other complex neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson Disease.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Aug 8, 202042 min

Ep 251The Bull that (probably) Sires Mostly Bulls

Male cattle (bulls) convert feed calories to weight gain more efficiently than females (cows). If more bulls could be put into beef production, the process would be even more sustainable. Dr. Alison Van Eenennaam and her research team attempted a clever trick to skew the ratio of males to females in cattle offspring. Sex determination in mammals is driven mostly by a single gene on the Y chromosome. So what if this gene was duplicated elsewhere in the genome? Using CRISPR gene editing, this is exactly what they did. “Cosmo” the bull should produce 75% male offspring. Dr. Van Eenennaam talks about the gene, its mechanism of action, the process of editing a bull’s genome, and the regulatory climate around gene-edited beef.Dr. Van Eenennaam on Twitter: @Biobeef Dr. Van Eenennaam’s website here.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Aug 1, 202038 min

Ep 250The Unfortunate Casualties of an Anti-Biotech Attack

In 2001 the Earth Liberation Front bombed the office of Dr. Toby Bradshaw at the University of Washington. The damage was massive, especially toward non-targeted labs. This is a great story of how misguided activism can have damaging collateral effects, and work against the efforts of scientists that are performing great work for people and a planet.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jul 25, 202040 min

Ep 249Circadian Clocks

Most organisms on earth evolved under constant intervals of light and darkness. The regular intervals led to the evolution of internal clocks that are trained by the light/dark patterns, and condition responses from gene expression to higher physiology and morphology. Dr. Eva Farre of Michigan State University has a notable career in circadian rhythm research in plants. Today she joins the podcast to discuss the value of an internal oscillator to fitness, trait presentation and domestication. We also discuss the fundamental nature of chemistry that controls timing. Co-hosted by Michigan State University graduate student Miles Roberts.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jul 18, 202056 min

Ep 248DNA Demystified

Dr. Alan McHughen has been a leader in biotechnology education for decades, and has served in public academic research as well as an advisor to the State Department in the Obama Administration. He has assembled a book about DNA, the basics of DNA biology and some of the modern applications from ancestry to biotechnological solutions. We have a discussion about the content of DNA Demystified.# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jul 11, 202054 min

Ep 247A Science-Based Glyphosate Documentary

The documentary space is littered with videos that misrepresent science, especially around agriculture. Dr. Hidde Boersma is a trained scientist that has taken up the mantle of making high-quality documentary films and other media to tell the real story, without the hyperbole and fear found in most video efforts. The plan now is to tell the story of the activist and attorney assault on glyphosate. Glyphosate is perhaps one of the safest agricultural chemicals, used without incident for over 40 years and reviewed extensively by the world’s foremost regulatory bodies. Since 2014 the compound has been targeted by those wishing to end its use, as well as profit massively from malicious lawsuits that ignore the real science. Dr. Boersma seeks to create a film to tell this story and is soliciting donations to make it happen. Please consider supporting his efforts, as his budget is reasonable and he does a great production with minimal support.Donate to Make the Film Here. Visit Sugar Rush Films Here You can contribute directly to the project and see his other excellent work Dr. Hidde Boersma on Twitter: @Hiddemhigh# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jul 4, 202037 min

Ep 246Gene Editing in Species Conservation

Analysis of populations of animals can be problematic, especially when individuals of different species share similar visual characteristics. Dr. Melinda Baerwald has developed a field-friendly way to identify individual species with great sensitivity and specificity, without a complicated DNA prep or temperature cycling equipment. The application of the SHERLOCK method was used to monitor populations of endangered species in Northern California. She describes the application of the assay and its application.Follow Dr. Baerwald on Twitter: @MelindaBaerwald# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jun 27, 202047 min

Ep 245COVID19 Update — What is Circular Health?

Dr. Ilaria Capua is one of the world’s most prominent virologists, and a Professor at the University of Florida and the Director of the One Health Center of Excellence. In this week’s podcast she updates us on the current state of COVID19 with some important philosophical approaches as to how we should think about the virus. In the second half we discuss her new book, Circular Health, a concept that focuses on the interconnectivity between human actions and outcomes.Her book is available here. Follow her on Twitter at @IlariaCapua# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jun 20, 202041 min

Ep 244The Dawn of Plant Genetic Engineering

Today’s podcast marks five complete years of podcast episodes, and there’s no better guest than someone on the Mount Rushmore of plant genetic engineering. We’re joined today by Dr. Robb Fraley, who was at ground zero of the first transformed plants. He recalls the race to transform plants, his time as a leader in the Monsanto company, and his vision for the future.Follow Dr. Fraley on Twitter: @RobbFraley# COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jun 13, 20201h 3m

Ep 243What is Aflatoxin? What is Aflasafe?

Aflatoxin is a natural poison emitted by several species of fungi. They infect grain, and exploit insect damage. Millions of people are affected by these toxins that invade world food staples, mostly with a higher incidence of specific cancers, like liver cancer. IITA is an organization committed to improving food staples in the developing world. Dr. Ranjit Bandyopadhyay and his team have discovered a fungal species that out-competes the toxic species, and is being distributed under the Aflasafe label. This product has great potential in assisting in food security and long term public health goals. Co-Hosted by Chalese Brown. * Website: www.aflasafe.com that also carries an e-newsletter, ATTC News * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Aflasafe/ * Twitter: https://twitter.com/aflasafe We’re also on: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCux7qcOzLELrE5D3aD0c4ow * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aflasafe * SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-280541779 * SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/Aflasafe # COLABRATalking Biotech is brought to you by Colabra – an R&D platform that brings your lab’s world-changing research together in one shared space. Learn more at https://www.colabra.app/# TALKING BIOTECHTwitter: https://twitter.com/talkingbiotechWebsite: https://www.colabra.app/podcasts/talking-biotech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colabrahqThe Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.

Jun 6, 20201h 0m