“The Network of Life: A New View of Evolution” with Professor David Mindell

The Network of Life: A New View of Evolution on Bridging the Gaps

For a long time, the prevailing perspective on evolution has been that it follows a vertical pathway, where genetic information is passed down from one generation to the next in a linear fashion, resembling a “tree of life.” This classical view suggests that species evolve through a process of divergence from common ancestors, resulting in a branching tree structure that traces the lineage of life over time. In his new book “The Network of Life” Professor David Mindell emphasises the need to update this understanding, and explains that evolution functions more like a distributed, decentralised network. In this framework, there are possibilities for horizontal evolution, where genetic material is shared across species in a more fluid and interconnected manner. The book looks at the forces behind horizontal evolution, such as interbreeding, genetic recombination, merging of species, horizontal gene transfer, and coevolution. The network view of evolution leads to a new symbiotic theory of health. It suggests that the future well-being of humans, other species, and our environment relies on how life evolves and adapts within this interconnected web. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps I speak with Professor David Mindell.

Professor David Mindel is a senior researcher of Zoology at the University of California, Berkeley. He is a former professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Michigan, director of the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology, and Dean of Science at the California Academy of Sciences.

We begin our discussion by revisiting the traditional concept of vertical evolution, where life is represented as a branching tree. This model shows how species evolve through a series of splits, tracing their lineage back to common ancestors. We explore how this classical framework explains the development of species over time and then shift to discussing two core ideas in evolutionary theory: natural selection and genetic mutation. For much of history, evolution has been viewed primarily through the lens of vertical inheritance, which emphasises the transmission of traits from parent to offspring.

One reason for this focus on vertical evolution is that early evolutionary studies, including Darwin’s, were centred around natural selection, with limited knowledge about genetic mutations. At that time, the role of genetic mutations was not well understood. Today, we know they are essential drivers of evolution. We examine how this early gap in understanding may have shaped the preference for the vertical model of evolution and consider whether it limited perspectives on how species adapt over time.

Next, we delve into the concept of horizontal evolution, which presents a shift from the traditional view. In “The Network of Life”, Professor David Mindell explores evidence suggesting that horizontal evolution—where genes are shared across species—has been happening since life began on Earth. To set the stage, I ask him to outline what we currently know about the origins of life. We also discuss the intriguing role of viruses, which can transfer genetic material between species and influence evolutionary paths.

We then dive into the key discoveries that support and solidify the concept of horizontal evolution. Processes such as hybridization, species merging, and horizontal gene transfer provide strong evidence for this interconnected view of life. Mindell highlights the contributions of prominent scientists and pivotal studies that have reshaped our understanding of evolution.

If we update the current evolutionary framework to include horizontal evolution, what new questions might this approach help us answer? We discuss the significance of adopting this broader perspective and how it could refine our understanding of life’s history.

Finally, we explore the exciting possibilities that arise from this new understanding. By embracing the network view of evolution, we can enhance research on synthetic life, support assisted evolution to help species adapt to climate change, and revolutionise our approaches to biotechnology, medicine, and environmental sustainability. This has been an insightful and enriching conversation, shedding light on the profound impact of horizontal evolution on our world.

Complement this discussion with “Zero to Birth: How the Human Brain Is Built” with Professor William Harris and then listen to “The Exquisite Machine: The New Science of the Heart” with Professor Sian Harding

By |October 19th, 2024|Biology, Future, History, Knowledge, Podcasts, Research|
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“Ending Epidemics: A History of Escape from Contagion” with Richard Conniff

Ending Epidemics on Bridging the Gaps pocast

It is difficult to imagine a not-so-distant past when deadly diseases were a routine part of life. Even more astonishing is the fact that during that time, prevailing medical beliefs attributed these diseases to harmful miasmas, bodily humors, and divine dyspepsia. However, a groundbreaking revelation occurred with the discovery of the world of microorganisms, which led to the understanding that these tiny organisms might be responsible for transmitting and spreading diseases. These pivotal discoveries and understandings paved the way for numerous measures and techniques to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.

The history of epidemics and humanity’s progress in combating these diseases is full of captivating stories. In his new book, “Ending Epidemics: A History of Escape from Contagion,” prolific author Richard Conniff outlines how our comprehension and prevention of some of the most devastating infectious diseases have advanced, consequently doubling the average life expectancy. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with Richard Conniff, delving into moments of inspiration and innovation, decades marked by unwavering determination, and periods of profound suffering that have spurred individuals, institutions, and governments to take action in the pursuit of public health.

Richard Conniff is a prolific author of several non-fiction books and many articles for magazines such as National Geographic, Smithsonian, and Time. He is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times, and a former commentator on NPR’s “All Things Considered”. He has won the National Magazine Award. He has also written and presented nature programmes for National Geographic television, the Discovery channel and the BBC.

Our conversation begins with an exploration of how communities in old days grappled with epidemics, given their limited understanding of the causes behind such widespread outbreaks. We delve into the intricate ways in which communities tried to comprehend and interpret illnesses before the pivotal discoveries of microorganisms and germs. An engaging segment follows, chronicling the efforts of early pioneers who harnessed the power of microscopes to identify microorganisms believed to be responsible for various diseases.

One captivating narrative we explore revolves around the remarkable utilization of cowpox to foster immunity against smallpox—an extraordinary breakthrough in the history of medicine. However, we also address the resistance encountered by these novel ideas and concepts. We then delve into the emergence of the concept of immunity, the discovery of microorganisms, and the subsequent development of vaccines and antibiotics. Additionally, we discuss the profound realization that improved sanitary conditions are indispensable for safeguarding public health.

Naturally, our conversation turns towards the recent Covid-19 epidemic, examining humanity’s response to this global crisis. Richard offers a significant insight that despite our enhanced capabilities in dealing with epidemics, these formidable diseases persist and may pose future threats if we fail to remain vigilant to the dangers they present.

Complement this discussion with Cloud Empires: Governing State-like Digital Platforms and Regaining Control with Professor Vili Lehdonvirta and then listen to “Kendall Square and the Making of a Global Innovation Hub” with Robert Buderi

By |May 28th, 2023|Biology, Future, History, Podcasts, Research|
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“The Exquisite Machine: The New Science of the Heart” with Professor Sian Harding

The Exquisite Machine on Bridging the Gaps

The heartbeat may be the first physical manifestation of an unborn child that can be seen six weeks after conception, and it continues roughly 100,000 times per day for as long as we are alive. Scientists and researchers have attempted to recreate the heart’s flawless engineering for decades in labs all around the world, but have been unsuccessful. Its exact operation and capacity to meet both our bodily and emotional demands makes it a marvel of engineering that is unmatched by anything built by humans. Any damage to this vital organ of the human body could result in problems that are potentially fatal.

In this episode of Bridging the Gaps I speak with professor Sian Harding about new scientific developments that are opening up the mysteries of the heart, as outlined in her new book “The Exquisite Machine: The New Science of the Heart”. We discuss cutting-edge technologies such as stem cells, gene editing, artificial intelligence and big data that have crucial real-world consequences for health and well-being.These technologies are enabling experiments and clinical trials that will lead to the development of new treatments for heart diseases.

Professor Sian Harding is a leading authority in cardiac science, and emeritus professor of cardiac pharmacology in Imperial College London. She was special advisor to the House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committee on Regenerative Medicine, and has been awarded the Imperial College Medal and a lifetime achievement award from the European Society of Cardiology.

We start off with a detailed discussion of how our present day understanding of the functioning of the human heart developed. We then discuss the cutting edge research on cardiac stem cells, touching upon the experiments where a small number of beating cells were created in the labs. The application of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Analytics are playing an important role in the field of cardiac research; we go through these topics in detail. Plasticity is a concept that we associate with the brain and its ability to rewire itself to manage any damage or other changes; We discuss the term plastic brain that Sian Harding uses in the book while explaining the resilience of our heart. We then discuss the nervous system that ensures that the heart responds to changing needs. We look into the relation between the emotions and functioning of the heart, discussing that the heart not only responds to our emotions but creates emotions as well. And finally we touch upon the importance of keeping “gender” in mind when developing and implementing solutions for heart related diseases and problems. This has been a highly informative discussion.

Complement this discussion with “Zero to Birth: How the Human Brain Is Built” with Professor William Harris and then listen to “The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds” with Professor Christopher Mason

By |December 1st, 2022|Artificial Intelligence, Biology, Podcasts, Research, Technology|
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