Nature Podcast
Springer Nature Limited
Dive into the fascinating world of science with the "Nature Podcast," brought to you by Springer Nature Limited. Each episode of this enlightening podcast series offers listeners a deep dive into the latest scientific discoveries, groundbreaking research, and insightful interviews with leading experts from various fields. From exploring the secrets of the cosmos to unraveling the complexities of the human genome, the "Nature Podcast" covers a wide array of topics that promise to engage, educate, and inspire audiences around the globe. Join us as we navigate through intricate scientific discussions, unpack current trends in research, and provide a platform for scientists to share their findings and the impact of their work on our everyday lives. Whether you're a seasoned researcher, a student of science, or simply a curious mind, the "Nature Podcast" is your gateway to understanding the world through the lens of science, presented in an accessible and engaging format by Springer Nature Limited.
Episodes
How light-based computers could cut AI's energy needs
The Nature Podcast delves into the innovative realm of photonic computing, showcasing how it can transform AI's energy consumption. Hosts Benjamin Thompson and Lizzie Gibney discuss the increasing energy demands of AI systems and introduce photonic computing as a potential solution. Guest expert Dong Baowei explains that photonic chips compute using light, making them faster and more energy-efficient compared to traditional electronic systems. The episode highlights a breakthrough where a less coherent light source made photonic computers more effective, simplifying control and boosting efficiency. This counterintuitive approach, replacing precise lasers with broader bandwidth LEDs, promises significant advancements in photonic computing for AI applications.
Audio long read: Hope, despair and CRISPR - the race to save one woman's life
In this poignant narrative, the "Nature Podcast" presents the intense race to develop a CRISPR-based treatment for Uditi Seraf, a young woman suffering from a rare and fatal genetic disorder. The episode, read by Benjamin Thompson, unfolds the story of hope, despair, and scientific innovation as researchers attempt a never-before-tried gene editing technique to save Uditi's life. Despite the fast-paced developments and the dedication of researchers in both the United States and India, the episode ends on a somber note with Uditi's premature death, underscoring the high stakes and emotional weight of cutting-edge medical research.
Rapid sepsis test identifies bacteria that spark life-threatening infection
In this compelling episode of the Nature Podcast, the focus is on a revolutionary diagnostic tool designed to drastically reduce the time required to identify bacterial species responsible for sepsis and determine their antibiotic sensitivity. Sepsis, a critical condition where the body's response to infection causes tissue damage and organ failure, is notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat effectively. The new testing method, developed by a team led by Seung hoon Kwon at Seoul National University, can identify bacterial infections in blood and ascertain antibiotic susceptibility in under a day, bypassing the traditional multi-day culture process. This advancement could significantly improve treatment outcomes by allowing healthcare providers to administer the most effective antibiotics sooner.
The plastic that biodegrades in your home compost
In this insightful episode of the Nature Podcast, hosts Emily Bates and Benjamin Thompson discuss groundbreaking research on biodegradable plastics. The focus is on a new type of plastic made from polylactide (PLA) that incorporates specialized enzymes, allowing it to decompose at lower temperatures found in home composts. The episode covers the scientific breakthroughs behind embedding these enzymes into PLA, the challenges of maintaining their functionality during the plastic production process, and the broader implications for plastic waste management. Experts like Alan Marty and Isabel Andre share their roles in developing this innovative material, which could potentially transform how we handle single-use plastics, making them fully compostable at home within just 26 weeks.
Breastfeeding should break down mothers' bones - here's why it doesn't
The "Nature Podcast" explores groundbreaking research revealing how breastfeeding mothers maintain their bone density despite the high calcium demands of milk production. The episode features discussions on the role of a specific protein produced during lactation that contributes significantly to bone health. Experts discuss gene-editing tools that target gut bacteria, highlighting their potential in preventing bone deterioration and other health issues. The podcast provides an insightful blend of expert interviews, cutting-edge research findings, and practical implications for future medical treatments and interventions.
These frog 'saunas' could help endangered species fight off a deadly fungus
In this intriguing episode, the Nature Podcast delves into a simple yet effective strategy aimed at conserving endangered frog species by using 'frog saunas' to fight the devastating chytrid fungus. The method involves creating warm environments using common materials, which help frogs naturally clear the fungus, potentially boosting their immunity. The research, primarily focused on the green and golden bell frog species, demonstrates promising results, suggesting that these saunas could significantly decrease infection levels and enhance survival rates. The episode provides a comprehensive look at the scientific basis for this approach, the experimental setup, and the broader implications for wildlife conservation and disease management.
Audio long read: How NASA astronauts are training to walk on the Moon in 2026
In this detailed narrative, NASA's rigorous preparations for the Artemis III mission, aiming for a 2026 moon landing, are revealed. Astronauts Kate Rubins and Andre Douglas partook in a simulated lunar environment in Arizona, navigating challenges posed by the terrain and tasks reminiscent of the moon's surface. The episode delves into the historical context, comparing the current preparations with the Apollo missions, emphasizing the advancements and continuity in astronaut training. The scientific goals of Artemis III include geological surveys particularly aimed at understanding the lunar south pole's unique landscape. Collaborations with international space agencies enhance the training regimen, incorporating varied geological experiences to equip astronauts with skills to maximize their lunar expeditions. The narrative encapsulates the excitement and meticulous planning surrounding NASA's return to the moon, highlighting the blend of legacy and innovation in space exploration.
Why 'open source' AIs could be anything but, the derailment risks of long freight trains, and breeding better wheat
In a varied discussion, the "Nature Podcast" team explores several intriguing topics. They start by examining the concept of "open washing" in AI, where entities like Microsoft and Google claim openness without fully meeting the criteria. This transparency is critical as it influences the European Union's AI regulations. The conversation then shifts to the increased derailment risks of longer freight trains, highlighting U.S. research showing that train length significantly correlates with accident likelihood. Lastly, the episode covers groundbreaking work on wheat breeding, focusing on leveraging ancient wheat varieties to enhance modern crops' resilience and nutritional quality against environmental challenges. This episode not only sheds light on technological and scientific advancements but also underscores ongoing debates and legislative developments affecting these areas.
How do fish know where a sound comes from? Scientists have an answer
In this detailed exploration, the hosts delve into the mechanisms behind fish's directional hearing, contrasting it with human auditory systems. Early segments discuss foundational studies and introduce the notion that fish hear through particle motion instead of pressure waves, which is how humans perceive sound. The episode highlights recent breakthroughs demonstrating that fish combine particle motion with pressure sensitivity to locate sounds, thanks to their unique anatomy, including a swim bladder that responds to changes in water pressure. This dual system enables them to discern the direction of sound sources effectively, which is further validated through experimental setups involving controlled sound playback and behavioral observations of fish responses.
Hybrid working works: huge study reveals no drop in productivity
This "Nature Podcast" episode, hosted by Nick Petruccow, delves into a large-scale study on hybrid work environments, revealing that such arrangements do not decrease productivity. Expert guests, including Stanford researcher Nick Bloom, discuss the outcomes of implementing a mix of home and office work. The study, conducted over a period with extensive data collection, shows that performance metrics remained stable while employee satisfaction and retention improved significantly. The episode not only covers the study's findings but also includes broader discussions on workplace flexibility's future.
Twitter suspended 70,000 accounts after the Capitol riots and it curbed misinformation
This episode of the Nature podcast, hosted by Springer Nature Limited, delves into the significant action taken by Twitter in response to the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021. Following the events, Twitter suspended around 70,000 accounts, which were primarily involved in spreading election misinformation. Researchers, including political scientist David Lazar, analyzed the effects of these suspensions. Their findings revealed a marked decrease in misinformation spread, attributed to the removal of key misinformation spreaders and a subsequent reduction in misleading content shared by their followers. Additionally, the episode discusses the broader implications of social media's role in democracy and public policy, emphasizing the ongoing challenges of content moderation and the balance between free speech and factual integrity.
How AI could improve robotics, the cockroach's origins, and promethium spills its secrets
This episode of the Nature podcast delves into the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming robotics, making them more adaptable and capable in daily tasks. Host Benjamin, along with experts Lizzie Gibney and Flora Graham, discuss the implications of integrating foundation models—large, general AI models used in online bots and image generators—into robotics. They explore the possibility of developing robots that can learn and adapt in real-world scenarios, far beyond the current capabilities of highly specialized industrial robots. The conversation also covers safety concerns and ethical considerations, particularly the risks associated with AI in physically interactive roles. Additionally, the episode touches on the origins of the German cockroach and groundbreaking research on the rare element promethium, adding layers of scientific intrigue.
How mathematician Freeman Hrabowski opened doors for Black scientists
In this enlightening episode of the Nature Podcast, host Benjamin Thompson interviews Freeman Hrabowski, a mathematician who has been a pivotal figure in promoting diversity in the STEM fields. Hrabowski recounts his early experiences with racial segregation and how they fueled his passion for education and civil rights. The episode centers on his role in founding the Meyerhoff Scholars Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, which has been instrumental in supporting Black students in STEM. Hrabowski shares poignant memories of his participation in the civil rights movement and discusses the broader impacts of the program, including its replication in other institutions and its role in fostering a new generation of diverse scientists.
Audio long read: How does ChatGPT 'think'? Psychology and neuroscience crack open AI large language models
In this insightful episode, experts from various fields unravel the intricate workings of AI systems, particularly large language models (LLMs), which are becoming increasingly central in tasks ranging from medical advice to academic writing. Despite their utility, these models pose challenges due to their "black box" nature, where the reasoning behind their outputs remains largely opaque. The episode explores advancements in explainable AI (XAI), which aims to make these systems more transparent and understandable. Techniques like "chain of thought" prompting are discussed alongside their limitations and potential misleading nature. The conversation also touches on the anthropomorphic ways these models are analyzed, likening their examination to psychological studies on human behavior.
Fentanyl addiction: the brain pathways behind the opioid crisis
In this episode, the Nature podcast explores the compelling neuroscience behind opioid addiction, particularly the effects of fentanyl. Hosts Nick Petrachow and Lizzie Gibney discuss the significant discoveries made by Christian Lucher and his team at the University of Geneva. They've identified separate brain systems responsible for the drug's addictive properties and withdrawal symptoms. Through detailed experiments on mice, the researchers have pinpointed specific neurons in the central amygdala that play a critical role in the negative reinforcement observed during withdrawal. This episode sheds light on the potential for developing less addictive pain relief medications by targeting these newly discovered pathways.
Lizard-inspired building design could save lives
In a fascinating exploration of biomimicry in architecture, this episode of the Nature Podcast delves into how structures can be made safer and more sustainable by emulating the natural world, specifically lizards. Hosts Benjamin Thompson and Lizzie Gibney discuss groundbreaking research that uses the concept of a lizard’s tail — which detaches to escape predators — to design buildings that could similarly 'detach' or control collapse during disasters, preventing total structural failure. The episode also covers the development of a new type of recyclable 3D printing resin derived from lipoic acid, which can be depolymerized and reused, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Alphafold 3.0: the AI protein predictor gets an upgrade
This episode of the Nature Podcast, hosted by Nick Bertra Chow and Benjamin Thompson, introduces Alphafold 3.0, an upgrade to the revolutionary Alphafold AI that has transformed protein structure prediction. The discussion centers around its enhanced capabilities to model complex protein interactions within cellular environments, addressing previous limitations. The episode also covers the development of a potential new type of nuclear clock that could redefine precision in timekeeping and allow scientists to test fundamental laws of physics.
Talking about sex and gender doesn't need to be toxic
This episode from the Nature podcast, spearheaded by editor Lucy Odling-Smee, features discussions on the complexities of researching sex and gender amidst socio-political controversies. Experts Peg McCarthy, Stacey Ritz, and Florence Ashley share insights on the need for nuanced understanding and inclusion in scientific studies. They critique the reductionist approaches often taken in biomedicine and highlight the impact of cultural and social dimensions in interpreting scientific data. The conversation stresses the need for multi-faceted definitions of sex and gender, urging the scientific community to embrace broader, more inclusive research practices that accurately reflect human diversity.
Dad's microbiome can affect offsprings' health - in mice
In this compelling episode of the Nature Podcast, the hosts delve into a recent study that demonstrates how disruptions in the gut microbiome of male mice can affect their progeny’s health. The research, led by Jamie Hackett from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, utilized low-dose antibiotics to perturb the gut microbiota of male mice. The findings reveal that offspring of these mice exhibited reduced birth weight and increased risk of severe developmental issues. Further experiments showed that these effects were linked to changes in the father's sperm, affecting placental development and, consequently, the health of the offspring. This episode not only highlights the potential for microbiome-induced intergenerational health effects but also prompts a reevaluation of how environmental factors could influence mammalian reproduction and development.
Audio long read: Why loneliness is bad for your health
This episode of the Nature Podcast, narrated by Benjamin Thompson, delves into the detrimental health effects of loneliness. Chronic loneliness is compared to obesity, inactivity, and smoking for its health risks, which include depression, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, and early death. The episode highlights a 2023 global survey showing a quarter of adults feel significantly lonely, prompting initiatives like the World Health Organization's campaign against loneliness. It discusses the physiological and neural impacts of loneliness, including changes in brain structure and function, increased stress hormones, and a heightened response to perceived social threats. The episode underscores the importance of understanding and addressing loneliness, especially among vulnerable populations.