archive

September 20, 2012 Different lineages of cat with the same coloration got their looks in unique ways. The genetic variants that determine those patterns come from different mutations in the same genes. And that has some scientists thinking there may be more to the genes than meets the eye.

Transcript

On All Things ConsideredPlaylist

July 16, 2012 Aging people who cook with vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins at home have more kinds of gut bacteria, than those eating a bland nursing home diet, says a new study. Researchers say that in addition to digestion, these bacteria might also increase immune and cognitive functions during aging.

Transcript

On Morning EditionPlaylist

June 13, 2012 The human body contains about 100 trillion cells, but only maybe one in 10 of those cells is actually human. The rest are from bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms. Now, scientists have unveiled the first survey the "human microbiome," which includes 10,000 species and more than 8 million genes.

Transcript

On All Things ConsideredPlaylist

March 23, 2012 The so-called hygiene hypothesis is right. Scientists say they've figured out how exposure to germs in infancy reduces the risk of allergies and other immune system problems.

Summary

January 24, 2012 Researchers found that children whose blood contained high levels of chemicals used in nonstick coatings and stain-resistant fabrics were less responsive to vaccination. The finding suggests, but doesn't prove, that these chemicals may make some children more vulnerable to infectious diseases.

Transcript

On All Things ConsideredPlaylist

October 3, 2011 The three scientists who won this year's Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine opened important windows on how the immune system works to defend against microbial invaders and refrain from attacking animals' cells.

Summary