6 chapters across the catalog
The FDA indicated it may approve the Moderna vaccine before Phase 3 clinical trials are completed, sparking debate over safety and public trust. Concerns are raised regarding the business model and long-term effects of DNA-influencing vaccines, which differ from traditional viral memory approaches. Speculation persists about whether such technology could lead to lasting genetic changes in human offspring.
Zika Virus, Genetically Modified Mosquitoes and Dr. Fauci
Dr. Anthony Fauci discussed the potential for using genetically modified Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes to combat the spread of the Zika virus. The plan involves making the mosquitoes infertile or infecting them with Wolbachia bacteria to prevent disease transmission. While the FDA has approved controlled pilot studies, critics worry about the long-term environmental impact of "insecticide" through genetic engineering.
Franken Salmon, Genetic Modification, and Canadian Approval
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has approved "AquaAdvantage" salmon, a genetically modified fish that grows twice as fast as natural salmon. This marks the first genetically modified animal approved for food in Canada, raising concerns among the hosts about the potential impact on wild ecosystems and food safety.
Quinoa Superfood Hype and Genetic Modification Failure
The rise of quinoa as a global "superfood" is discussed, including claims that Western demand is pricing out indigenous populations in Peru and Ecuador. An anecdote is shared regarding a failed attempt to genetically breed a shell-less version of quinoa; the experiment resulted in the entire crop being immediately consumed by birds, proving the evolutionary necessity of the grain's hard outer shell.
HIV Vaccine Trials, University of Western Ontario
Researchers at the University of Western Ontario have received FDA approval to begin human clinical trials for an HIV vaccine. The vaccine uses a genetically modified, killed version of the virus to trigger an immune response. Questions are raised about the ethics and methodology of testing a preventative vaccine on human subjects, particularly regarding how researchers determine its effectiveness against live infection.
A listener from the apparel industry claims that the quality of cotton fiber has significantly deteriorated over the last 25 years. While high-end Egyptian cotton remains superior, American cotton quality has declined for unknown reasons, with some speculating that genetic modifications by companies like Monsanto may be responsible.
