Dr. Adam Leman, Lead Scientist, Fermentation, Good Food Institute

December 19, 2023

In this episode, we discuss the convergence of fermentation, perhaps the world's oldest biotechnology, with modern advancements in molecular biology to produce non-animal proteins as a sustainable food source. The exponential growth of the human population and our continued reliance on traditional processes for growing crops and raising animals for food risk widespread food security challenges, as we approach the limit of Earth's arable land. Cutting-edge biotechnology tools and novel applications of ancient fermentation processes allow us to modify bacteria, fungi, and other organisms, so we can leverage their unique properties to produce sustainable and nutritious—and tasty!—alternatives to animal-based proteins.

Dr. James Diggans, Head of Biosecurity, Twist Bioscience & Chair, International Gene Synthesis Consortium

October 19, 2023

In this episode, we discuss the role of international screening efforts in protecting against the misuse of synthetically manufactured genetic materials. Rapid expansion in the capacity, affordability, and accessibility of gene synthesis—the ability to assemble genetic sequences from scratch—enables anyone with an internet connection to order custom genomes from vendors around the world. In the absence of consistent national or global regulatory frameworks, the responsibility falls on gene synthesis companies and researchers themselves to ensure that these services are not being misused to produce dangerous pathogens or their components. The International Gene Synthesis Consortium (IGSC) is an industry organization that supports the development and implementation of screening protocols for gene synthesis orders and customers to mitigate the risk of this misuse, in order to facilitate the broadest use of these technologies for peaceful purposes.

Mr. Saurabh Todi, Research Analyst, High-Tech Geopolitics Programme, The Takshashila Institution, India
Dr. Shambhavi Naik, Head of Research, The Takshashila Institution, India

September 28, 2023

In this episode, we discuss advancements in gene drive capabilities and their potential as a tool to control vectors of zoonotic diseases. Gene drives are a natural process that preferentially propagates specific genetic traits through a population via sexual reproduction, and advances in genomic engineering have enabled scientists to harness this capability to target specific traits for spread in specific populations. They are best suited for use in animals that have short reproductive cycles and produce a large number of offspring, making them impractical for humans but immensely powerful for insects. Gene drives are being investigated as a tool to control mosquitoes' ability to procreate or their susceptibility to infections that could then spread to animals and humans, as a way to control diseases like malaria. Mr. Todi and Dr. Naik discuss the potential benefits of these capabilities, as well as barriers, costs, risks, and other considerations that factor into decisions regarding their future use.