Immunology podcasts

Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove and Brianne Barker discuss a newly identified mechanism for RNA-guided DNA recognition and genetic control that may predate CRISPR pathways. They also examine research proposing that features of Alzheimer’s disease neuropathology could have originated as a host response to infection in the brain, including evidence concerning phosphorylated tau and herpesvirus activity. The episode connects ancient molecular recognition mechanisms with questions about antiviral defence.

Hosted by Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove

Adrian Hill discusses the scientific challenges behind developing the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, its path from research to use, and efforts to make vaccination accessible in Africa. The conversation explores the complexity of the malaria parasite and the practical demands of vaccine production and delivery. The publisher credits Marushka Soobben and Chris Smith as presenters and provides the episode audio and interview transcript.

Hosted by Marushka Soobben, Chris Smith

Vincent Racaniello, Kathy Spindler and Brianne Barker discuss research using generative AI to design complete bacteriophage genomes, including reported viable phages active against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They also examine a study linking recombinant shingles vaccination with lower cardiovascular-event risk. The discussion connects genome modelling, experimental virology and vaccine research, alongside listener letters and weekly selections.

Hosted by Vincent Racaniello, Brianne Barker

The Chemistry World team examines research on CAR-T immunotherapy for bladder tumours, including results in mice and the challenges of treating solid cancers. A second discussion considers how incorrectly assigned spectral features may have affected interpretations of defects in carbon materials.

Hosted by Mariana Kneppers

Nature reporters discuss Dolly Parton's advocacy for vaccines and public health alongside promising phase III results for a personalised mRNA cancer vaccine for melanoma.

Andrew Huberman and immunologist Max Krummel discuss immune function, sleep, emotions, memory, the thymus, autoimmunity, cancer and immunization.

Jeff Coller explains how messenger RNA carries information from DNA to the machinery that produces proteins and how researchers are learning to use it therapeutically. The conversation covers vaccination, tailored treatments and approaches connected with gene editing, placing these developments in the broader biology of RNA and its possible role in the origins of life.

Hosted by Sean Carroll

Nicholas Weiler and neurologist Katrin Andreasson discuss connections between inflammation, energy metabolism and Alzheimer's disease. Andreasson describes how aging can alter microglia and astrocytes, affecting the immune and metabolic support that neurons receive. The conversation explores research on inflammatory signaling and the possibility that immune dysfunction outside the brain contributes to neurodegeneration. It also examines experiments in which targeting peripheral inflammation restored memory in mouse models, and why human clinical studies are needed to establish whether these findings can lead to effective treatments.

Hosted by Nicholas Weiler

Gunnveig Grødeland discusses progress and concerns during the initial COVID-19 vaccine rollout. This Norwegian archive episode reflects evidence available at publication.

Gunnveig Grødeland explains vaccine development and immune protection during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Norwegian discussion reflects its original publication period.

Anne Spurkland returns to discuss evolving knowledge about COVID-19 and efforts to develop treatments and vaccines. This Norwegian episode records a 2020 perspective.