Virology 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

Vincent Racaniello speaks with Roberto Cattaneo and Kalpana Yadav at the 2026 American Society for Virology meeting about measles persistence in the brain. They discuss selection for highly fusogenic viral variants when usual measles receptors are absent, neuron-to-neuron spread, and the development of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a rare, fatal delayed complication of measles infection.

Hosted by Vincent Racaniello

Paul Bieniasz joins Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove and Kathy Spindler to discuss his laboratory’s research on coronavirus genetic variation. The conversation examines how the NSP15 nuclease cuts viral RNA into short pieces that can be reinserted elsewhere, producing insertion mutations and new furin-cleavage sites at the spike S1/S2 boundary. The episode links the underlying preprint and includes listener correspondence and weekly selections.

Hosted by Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove

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 hosts discuss research linking bacterial signatures to colon-cancer recurrence and a separate study of bacteriophage-derived proteins that trigger bacterial pilus detachment. The episode works through the scientific papers and experimental questions; the cancer findings concern an association rather than proof of causation.

Hosted by Vincent Racaniello, Michael Schmidt

Nature staff discuss evidence from whales and mole rats suggesting that DNA repair may contribute to longevity, and how COVID-19 can reactivate dormant viruses.

Gunnveig Grødeland discusses competing explanations of the origins of COVID-19 and the evidence available at the episode's publication. Conversation in Norwegian.

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.

Anne Spurkland discusses coronavirus biology, transmission and responses to the emerging pandemic. This Norwegian conversation reflects knowledge at its original 2020 publication date.