https://simplecast.com Harvard Medical Labcast HMS scientists tackle a variety of important questions, ranging from how your neurons work to which genes play a role in particular diseases. Our podcast gives you the scoop on some of this work, providing context and highlighting the latest trends in medical education and biomedical research. © 2020 The President and Fellows of Harvard College en Tue, 25 Aug 2020 13:00:11 +0000 Fri, 12 Sep 2025 17:40:30 +0000 https://hms.harvard.edu/ Harvard Medical Labcast https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/7165f670-0b61-4bae-b551-ed805a4f2ab7/f64fa9a2-5691-44c6-8200-6cb1decebb4e/3000x3000/1517842736artwork.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://hms.harvard.edu/ episodic HMS scientists tackle a variety of important questions, ranging from how your neurons work to which genes play a role in particular diseases. Our podcast gives you the scoop on some of this work, providing context and highlighting the latest trends in medical education and biomedical research. Harvard Medical School false https://feeds.simplecast.com/1NcSsLZs Harvard Medical School social@hms.harvard.edu 7463b1d7-8a36-4896-b637-e7997bf11a23 On Cancer's Case As a teenager, Joan Brugge expected to become a math teacher. Then her sister developed a fatal brain tumor, and Brugge shifted to devote her career to uncovering the fundamental workings of cancer.

Now a world-renowned cell biologist, Brugge investigates how cancers form, spread and become resistant to therapy. Whether she's probing the startling variety of cells within tumors or building 3D models to study cancer development in structures that more closely resemble the human body, Brugge continues to illuminate cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs and more.

In this episode, Brugge tells the story of her path into cancer biology and discusses her latest endeavors. She also shares her thoughts on the challenges and opportunities facing the field today and the skills she believes will best serve the next generation of cancer researchers.

Brugge is the Louise Foote Pfeiffer Professor of Cell Biology in the Blavatnik Institute at HMS and co-director of the Ludwig Center at Harvard Medical School, which brings together researchers across disciplines to overcome barriers that prevent the development effective cancer therapies.

Note: This interview was recorded before the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Download the full transcript [PDF].

Episode guide:

  • 0:03 Introduction
  • 1:20 Diverted from math by sister's illness
  • 3:55 Major discovery as a postdoctoral researcher
  • 6:05 Finding a balance between work and family
  • 7:25 Sojourn into biotechnology and back to the lab
  • 10:35 Building 3D models to study tumors
  • 13:10 Current investigations in ovarian and breast cancers
  • 18:40 Lung cancer research and the paradox of antioxidants
  • 21:35 Interdisciplinary collaboration and skills for future researchers
  • 25:50 Hopes for new discovery
  • 28:35 Conclusion

Producer: Rick Groleau

Music: "Fairy Dust" by Velvet Ears 3 via Extreme Music

Subscribe to the Harvard Medical Labcast on SimpleCast or iTunes.

]]> Tue, 25 Aug 2020 13:00:11 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ As a teenager, Joan Brugge expected to become a math teacher. Then her sister developed a fatal brain tumor, and Brugge shifted to devote her career to uncovering the fundamental workings of cancer.

Now a world-renowned cell biologist, Brugge investigates how cancers form, spread and become resistant to therapy. Whether she's probing the startling variety of cells within tumors or building 3D models to study cancer development in structures that more closely resemble the human body, Brugge continues to illuminate cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs and more.

In this episode, Brugge tells the story of her path into cancer biology and discusses her latest endeavors. She also shares her thoughts on the challenges and opportunities facing the field today and the skills she believes will best serve the next generation of cancer researchers.

Brugge is the Louise Foote Pfeiffer Professor of Cell Biology in the Blavatnik Institute at HMS and co-director of the Ludwig Center at Harvard Medical School, which brings together researchers across disciplines to overcome barriers that prevent the development effective cancer therapies.

Note: This interview was recorded before the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Download the full transcript [PDF].

Episode guide:

  • 0:03 Introduction
  • 1:20 Diverted from math by sister's illness
  • 3:55 Major discovery as a postdoctoral researcher
  • 6:05 Finding a balance between work and family
  • 7:25 Sojourn into biotechnology and back to the lab
  • 10:35 Building 3D models to study tumors
  • 13:10 Current investigations in ovarian and breast cancers
  • 18:40 Lung cancer research and the paradox of antioxidants
  • 21:35 Interdisciplinary collaboration and skills for future researchers
  • 25:50 Hopes for new discovery
  • 28:35 Conclusion

Producer: Rick Groleau

Music: "Fairy Dust" by Velvet Ears 3 via Extreme Music

Subscribe to the Harvard Medical Labcast on SimpleCast or iTunes.

]]> On Cancer's Case Harvard Medical School 00:29:14 How family tragedy gave rise to a world-leading cancer biologist How family tragedy gave rise to a world-leading cancer biologist biology, joan brugge, cancer false full 42 258eab3d-ed36-45bd-98d7-80f651866633 Road Less Traveled Note: This interview was recorded in 2019. For updates on Sequist's work during the COVID-19 pandemic, read our new Q&A.

Traveling between New York, Albuquerque and Taos Pueblo while growing up and transitioning from computer chip engineering at Intel to enrolling in medical school, Thomas Sequist has never quite followed a straightforward path.

After training in primary care and health care policy, Sequist found his way toward pursuing a great passion: improving health care quality and equity for all patients, with a special focus on American Indian communities.

Now, Sequist helps new generations of American Indian students find their own paths into medicine, biomedical research and health care policy. For his part, he's not sure where he's going next.

Sequist is professor of health care policy in the Blavatnik Institute at Harvard Medical School and professor of medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He is also chief patient experience and equity officer at Partners HealthCare.

 

Download the full transcript [PDF].

 

Episode guide:

0:02 Introduction

1:05 Growing up in New York, Albuquerque and Taos Pueblo

3:15 A winding path from Intel to medical school

8:50 Seeking impact in primary care and health care policy

11:00 Research into practice: health care quality and equity

17:20 Addressing health disparities in American Indian communities

19:25 Helping American Indian college students find their paths into medicine

24:45 Clinician partnerships with the Indian Health Service and Navajo Nation

30:15 Looking back at 25 years of service

32:05 Conclusion

 

Related links:

Co-author, Investing in the Health of American Indians and Alaska Natives (JAMA, March 2020)

Director, Four Directions Summer Research Program

Medical director, Brigham and Women's Physician Outreach Program with Indian Health Service

 

Producer: Rick Groleau

 

Music: "Get Up While We Can" by Epic Country via Extreme Music

 

Subscribe to the Harvard Medical Labcast on SimpleCast or iTunes.

]]> Tue, 5 May 2020 20:40:23 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Note: This interview was recorded in 2019. For updates on Sequist's work during the COVID-19 pandemic, read our new Q&A.

Traveling between New York, Albuquerque and Taos Pueblo while growing up and transitioning from computer chip engineering at Intel to enrolling in medical school, Thomas Sequist has never quite followed a straightforward path.

After training in primary care and health care policy, Sequist found his way toward pursuing a great passion: improving health care quality and equity for all patients, with a special focus on American Indian communities.

Now, Sequist helps new generations of American Indian students find their own paths into medicine, biomedical research and health care policy. For his part, he's not sure where he's going next.

Sequist is professor of health care policy in the Blavatnik Institute at Harvard Medical School and professor of medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He is also chief patient experience and equity officer at Partners HealthCare.

 

Download the full transcript [PDF].

 

Episode guide:

0:02 Introduction

1:05 Growing up in New York, Albuquerque and Taos Pueblo

3:15 A winding path from Intel to medical school

8:50 Seeking impact in primary care and health care policy

11:00 Research into practice: health care quality and equity

17:20 Addressing health disparities in American Indian communities

19:25 Helping American Indian college students find their paths into medicine

24:45 Clinician partnerships with the Indian Health Service and Navajo Nation

30:15 Looking back at 25 years of service

32:05 Conclusion

 

Related links:

Co-author, Investing in the Health of American Indians and Alaska Natives (JAMA, March 2020)

Director, Four Directions Summer Research Program

Medical director, Brigham and Women's Physician Outreach Program with Indian Health Service

 

Producer: Rick Groleau

 

Music: "Get Up While We Can" by Epic Country via Extreme Music

 

Subscribe to the Harvard Medical Labcast on SimpleCast or iTunes.

]]> Road Less Traveled Harvard Medical School 00:32:38 Thomas Sequist on finding his path in medicine—and guiding others along their own Thomas Sequist on finding his path in medicine—and guiding others along their own false full 41 24641a51-2c50-4106-85ff-55e50f5ade71 Neither Dazed nor Confused Note: This interview was recorded in 2019. For updates on Inouye's work during the coronavirus pandemic and the link between COVID-19 and delirium, read our new Q&A.

Each year, more than 7 million hospitalized people in the U.S. slide into delirium: an acute state of confusion that raises risk of serious health complications and death.

Only a few decades ago, medical professionals believed they couldn't do anything to prevent delirium. Then Sharon Inouye proved otherwise. Her programs, adopted by hundreds of hospitals, have helped reduce cases of the condition by an estimated 40 percent. 

Inouye is a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and director of the Aging Brain Center in the Marcus Institute for Aging Research at Hebrew SeniorLife.

In this episode, Inouye shares the story of how she became interested in delirium, describes how caregivers and clinicians can identify and prevent it, and explores the connection between delirium and dementia. She also talks about the family roots of her interest in medicine, her forays into English literature and harpsichord in college, dipping her toe into health policy—and how she struggled to stop her own father, a physician who treated survivors of atomic bombings, from developing delirium.

Download the full transcript [PDF].

Episode guide:

  • 0:05 Introduction
  • 2:25 Father as role model
  • 6:45 Family roots of humanism in medicine
  • 9:15 Turned to English and harpsichord in college
  • 12:05 Early application to medical school on a dare
  • 15:20 What is delirium and why is it an important issue
  • 17:40 Discovery that delirium doesn't "just happen"
  • 23:00 Risks for delirium and what family members, clinicians and researchers can do to mitigate them
  • 26:55 Delirium prevention in health care settings
  • 29:35 Father's delirium and the importance of teams
  • 33:00 Turn to health policy
  • 35:00 Connection between delirium and dementia
  • 38:25 Conclusion

Related links:

Producer: Rick Groleau

Music: Bach, "English Suite No. 1 in A Major, BWV 806," via Pond5

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2020 19:40:55 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Note: This interview was recorded in 2019. For updates on Inouye's work during the coronavirus pandemic and the link between COVID-19 and delirium, read our new Q&A.

Each year, more than 7 million hospitalized people in the U.S. slide into delirium: an acute state of confusion that raises risk of serious health complications and death.

Only a few decades ago, medical professionals believed they couldn't do anything to prevent delirium. Then Sharon Inouye proved otherwise. Her programs, adopted by hundreds of hospitals, have helped reduce cases of the condition by an estimated 40 percent. 

Inouye is a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and director of the Aging Brain Center in the Marcus Institute for Aging Research at Hebrew SeniorLife.

In this episode, Inouye shares the story of how she became interested in delirium, describes how caregivers and clinicians can identify and prevent it, and explores the connection between delirium and dementia. She also talks about the family roots of her interest in medicine, her forays into English literature and harpsichord in college, dipping her toe into health policy—and how she struggled to stop her own father, a physician who treated survivors of atomic bombings, from developing delirium.

Download the full transcript [PDF].

Episode guide:

  • 0:05 Introduction
  • 2:25 Father as role model
  • 6:45 Family roots of humanism in medicine
  • 9:15 Turned to English and harpsichord in college
  • 12:05 Early application to medical school on a dare
  • 15:20 What is delirium and why is it an important issue
  • 17:40 Discovery that delirium doesn't "just happen"
  • 23:00 Risks for delirium and what family members, clinicians and researchers can do to mitigate them
  • 26:55 Delirium prevention in health care settings
  • 29:35 Father's delirium and the importance of teams
  • 33:00 Turn to health policy
  • 35:00 Connection between delirium and dementia
  • 38:25 Conclusion

Related links:

Producer: Rick Groleau

Music: Bach, "English Suite No. 1 in A Major, BWV 806," via Pond5

]]> Neither Dazed nor Confused Harvard Medical School 00:39:16 The stories behind geriatrician Sharon Inouye's battle to prevent delirium The stories behind geriatrician Sharon Inouye's battle to prevent delirium false full 40 e9624bff-a90d-46d6-be09-47b828817124 From Harvard to Hollywood Neal Baer is an award-winning television writer and producer—and a Harvard Medical School-trained pediatrician (MD ’96). Through his pioneering work on hit shows such as ER and Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, as well as his leadership in connecting media producers with doctors and scientists, Baer has helped shape public perceptions of medicine, illness and health disparities, with a special focus on issues that disproportionately affect LGBTQ communities.

In this month’s podcast, Baer recounts his unconventional journey and explains how storytelling is central to being both a writer and a doctor. Along the way, he reveals how medical school inadvertently prepared him to be an executive producer.

Baer is an adjunct professor at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health and a part-time lecturer on global health and social medicine at HMS.

]]> Fri, 19 Jan 2018 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Neal Baer is an award-winning television writer and producer—and a Harvard Medical School-trained pediatrician (MD ’96). Through his pioneering work on hit shows such as ER and Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, as well as his leadership in connecting media producers with doctors and scientists, Baer has helped shape public perceptions of medicine, illness and health disparities, with a special focus on issues that disproportionately affect LGBTQ communities.

In this month’s podcast, Baer recounts his unconventional journey and explains how storytelling is central to being both a writer and a doctor. Along the way, he reveals how medical school inadvertently prepared him to be an executive producer.

Baer is an adjunct professor at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health and a part-time lecturer on global health and social medicine at HMS.

]]> From Harvard to Hollywood Harvard Medical School 00:44:06 Emmy-nominated alum combines medicine, media and storytelling Emmy-nominated alum combines medicine, media and storytelling false full 39 f4c26830-134a-4afc-a97e-abf137658ae6 Chew on This Dentists take care of our mouths, and doctors take care of the rest of us—but it’s becoming increasingly clear that oral health and overall health are inextricably linked. In this month’s podcast, dentist and future physician Lisa Simon talks about the potential benefits and challenges of bringing dentistry and medicine back together after a 150-year separation.

A graduate of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Simon is currently the HSDM Fellow in Oral Health and Medicine Integration and a medical student at Harvard Medical School.

]]> Fri, 24 Feb 2017 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Dentists take care of our mouths, and doctors take care of the rest of us—but it’s becoming increasingly clear that oral health and overall health are inextricably linked. In this month’s podcast, dentist and future physician Lisa Simon talks about the potential benefits and challenges of bringing dentistry and medicine back together after a 150-year separation.

A graduate of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Simon is currently the HSDM Fellow in Oral Health and Medicine Integration and a medical student at Harvard Medical School.

]]> Chew on This Harvard Medical School 00:20:38 The benefits and challenges of reintegrating dental and medical care The benefits and challenges of reintegrating dental and medical care false full 38 be4996ff-38f1-45e2-ba67-dc00f9c63210 Blunt Scrutiny Staci Gruber, HMS associate professor of psychiatry and director of the Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core at McLean Hospital, describes what she and other researchers are learning about the effects of recreational and medical marijuana on brain structure, brain function and quality of life in teens and adults.

Along the way, Gruber counters common misconceptions about marijuana research and shares many of the puns that are inevitable in her line of work.

]]> Fri, 21 Oct 2016 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Staci Gruber, HMS associate professor of psychiatry and director of the Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core at McLean Hospital, describes what she and other researchers are learning about the effects of recreational and medical marijuana on brain structure, brain function and quality of life in teens and adults.

Along the way, Gruber counters common misconceptions about marijuana research and shares many of the puns that are inevitable in her line of work.

]]> Blunt Scrutiny Harvard Medical School 00:23:28 Tackling research gaps in medical and recreational marijuana use Tackling research gaps in medical and recreational marijuana use false full 37 c1c49143-6cb8-44dd-a542-e706e0d76ea1 Challenging Common Knowledge Economist and physician Anupam “Bapu” Jena, the Ruth L. Newhouse Associate Professor of Health Care Policy at HMS, analyzes compelling health care issues ranging from physician behavior to prescription drug abuse to the economics of medical innovation. Here, he talks about finding research questions in unusual places, what happens when a result contradicts “common knowledge,” what’s fun and challenging about his work, and learning when to let a project go.

And in this month’s abstract, researchers in the lab of Timothy Mitchison uncover potential clues about how immature egg cells remain dormant in the body for years. Read the full story.

]]> Fri, 12 Aug 2016 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Economist and physician Anupam “Bapu” Jena, the Ruth L. Newhouse Associate Professor of Health Care Policy at HMS, analyzes compelling health care issues ranging from physician behavior to prescription drug abuse to the economics of medical innovation. Here, he talks about finding research questions in unusual places, what happens when a result contradicts “common knowledge,” what’s fun and challenging about his work, and learning when to let a project go.

And in this month’s abstract, researchers in the lab of Timothy Mitchison uncover potential clues about how immature egg cells remain dormant in the body for years. Read the full story.

]]> Challenging Common Knowledge Harvard Medical School 00:26:50 Inside the mind of physician-economist Bapu Jena Inside the mind of physician-economist Bapu Jena false full 36 bf642bf9-e907-4af9-91e4-57dce7dd1b6c Connecting the Dots Jessica Halem, program manager of the LGBT Office within the Office for Diversity Inclusion and Community Partnership at HMS, shares some of the ways the Harvard Medical School community is working to reduce health care disparities for transgender patients. Efforts range from medical education and faculty training to research programs to environmental modifications, such as on doctor’s office intake forms and bathroom signs.

]]> Wed, 22 Jun 2016 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Jessica Halem, program manager of the LGBT Office within the Office for Diversity Inclusion and Community Partnership at HMS, shares some of the ways the Harvard Medical School community is working to reduce health care disparities for transgender patients. Efforts range from medical education and faculty training to research programs to environmental modifications, such as on doctor’s office intake forms and bathroom signs.

]]> Connecting the Dots Harvard Medical School 00:21:01 Unifying efforts across HMS to improve transgender health care Unifying efforts across HMS to improve transgender health care false full 35 1fe9d24a-0f30-4c85-939b-d6385739b6ec Culture Clash Joseph Betancourt, HMS associate professor of medicine, shares stories about the challenges of cross-cultural communication in health care, both as a doctor today and as a child from a bilingual, bicultural household who accompanied his grandmother to the doctor’s office. He also describes the progress he has seen in reducing racial and ethnic health care disparities as director of the Disparities Solution Center at Massachusetts General Hospital.

And in this episode's abstract, research from HMS and Brigham and Women’s Hospital shows how understanding the personal, political, ecological and economic factors behind the Ebola pandemic is critical for preventing future disease outbreaks.

]]> Fri, 8 Apr 2016 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Joseph Betancourt, HMS associate professor of medicine, shares stories about the challenges of cross-cultural communication in health care, both as a doctor today and as a child from a bilingual, bicultural household who accompanied his grandmother to the doctor’s office. He also describes the progress he has seen in reducing racial and ethnic health care disparities as director of the Disparities Solution Center at Massachusetts General Hospital.

And in this episode's abstract, research from HMS and Brigham and Women’s Hospital shows how understanding the personal, political, ecological and economic factors behind the Ebola pandemic is critical for preventing future disease outbreaks.

]]> Culture Clash Harvard Medical School 00:18:00 Improving communication and reducing disparities at the doctor’s office Improving communication and reducing disparities at the doctor’s office false full 34 96b34869-23fa-4083-a322-f057847d2445 Genetics in Space Ting Wu, HMS professor of genetics, talks about ways scientists are striving to optimize astronauts' physical and mental health—and anticipating the biomedical challenges ahead as humankind considers long-term space travel.

And in this episode's abstract, a study led by Brittany Charlton at HMS and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health offers reassurance for women and their health care providers about the safety of taking oral contraceptives during or just before pregnancy.

]]> Tue, 2 Feb 2016 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Ting Wu, HMS professor of genetics, talks about ways scientists are striving to optimize astronauts' physical and mental health—and anticipating the biomedical challenges ahead as humankind considers long-term space travel.

And in this episode's abstract, a study led by Brittany Charlton at HMS and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health offers reassurance for women and their health care providers about the safety of taking oral contraceptives during or just before pregnancy.

]]> Genetics in Space Harvard Medical School 00:24:57 Improving human health on and off the Earth's surface Improving human health on and off the Earth's surface false full 33 c28a17e6-6471-40e8-bead-ccce9b6bb49a The A-Word Reisa Sperling, HMS professor of neurology at Brigham and Women's Hospital, shares her family's personal connection with Alzheimer's disease and describes ongoing research into early diagnosis and intervention.

And in this episode's abstract, researchers in the lab of George Church use the gene-editing tool CRISPR to inactivate retroviruses in the pig genome with the hope of one day making organs safer for transplant into humans.

]]> Tue, 27 Oct 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Reisa Sperling, HMS professor of neurology at Brigham and Women's Hospital, shares her family's personal connection with Alzheimer's disease and describes ongoing research into early diagnosis and intervention.

And in this episode's abstract, researchers in the lab of George Church use the gene-editing tool CRISPR to inactivate retroviruses in the pig genome with the hope of one day making organs safer for transplant into humans.

]]> The A-Word Harvard Medical School 00:18:48 Trying to catch Alzheimer's disease before symptoms appear Trying to catch Alzheimer's disease before symptoms appear false full 32 03f05adc-6789-44c7-b75f-e371b4966a4d Genetics of Sleep Dragana Rogulja, assistant professor of neurobiology at HMS, runs a sleep lab in which hundreds of thousands of fruit flies are studied as they snooze. Rogulja’s goal is to identify genes involved in sleep that are also conserved in human beings.

And in this episode’s abstract, researchers in the HMS Department of Health Care Policy have found that hospitals can be penalized for serving vulnerable populations.

]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Dragana Rogulja, assistant professor of neurobiology at HMS, runs a sleep lab in which hundreds of thousands of fruit flies are studied as they snooze. Rogulja’s goal is to identify genes involved in sleep that are also conserved in human beings.

And in this episode’s abstract, researchers in the HMS Department of Health Care Policy have found that hospitals can be penalized for serving vulnerable populations.

]]> Genetics of Sleep Harvard Medical School 00:19:15 Tour a lab that studies slumbering fruit flies Tour a lab that studies slumbering fruit flies false full 31 dc30b991-a88a-4847-8121-e90e638e53e5 Object Lessons Dominic Hall, curator of the Warren Anatomical Museum in the Center for the History of Medicine at the Francis A. Countway Library of Medicine, talks about how individual medical artifacts can bring to life multiple narratives and inform today’s doctors and researchers. Along the way, he explores just a few of the 15,000 objects in the 160-year-old collection, including a giant skull and a tray of model eyes.

And in this episode’s abstract, researchers at HMS and Mass Eye and Ear recreate ancient viruses to deliver modern gene therapies in mice.

]]> Fri, 21 Aug 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Dominic Hall, curator of the Warren Anatomical Museum in the Center for the History of Medicine at the Francis A. Countway Library of Medicine, talks about how individual medical artifacts can bring to life multiple narratives and inform today’s doctors and researchers. Along the way, he explores just a few of the 15,000 objects in the 160-year-old collection, including a giant skull and a tray of model eyes.

And in this episode’s abstract, researchers at HMS and Mass Eye and Ear recreate ancient viruses to deliver modern gene therapies in mice.

]]> Object Lessons Harvard Medical School 00:23:41 Inside the life of an anatomical museum curator Inside the life of an anatomical museum curator false full 30 e0fb9db3-1ea1-49bc-9f31-6586373074f4 Rx: Poetry Physician and poet Rafael Campo describes how medicine and poetry are interconnected at the most basic levels. According to this HMS associate professor of medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, language and metaphor reveal medical and humanistic insights into the body in ways that go far beyond data and checklists.

And in this episode’s abstract, researchers in the lab of HMS professor and Wyss Institute core faculty member Pamela Silver transplant a circadian clock into a non-circadian species.

]]> Thu, 16 Jul 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Physician and poet Rafael Campo describes how medicine and poetry are interconnected at the most basic levels. According to this HMS associate professor of medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, language and metaphor reveal medical and humanistic insights into the body in ways that go far beyond data and checklists.

And in this episode’s abstract, researchers in the lab of HMS professor and Wyss Institute core faculty member Pamela Silver transplant a circadian clock into a non-circadian species.

]]> Rx: Poetry Harvard Medical School 00:26:16 How the power of poems can enhance the doctor-patient relationship How the power of poems can enhance the doctor-patient relationship false full 29 adcb3312-4385-4aa6-a463-a722fe512c59 Medicine and Morality Robert Truog, a Harvard Medical School professor at Boston Children’s Hospital and director of the HMS Center for Bioethics, teaches doctors and nurses to become more aware of the ethical decisions they make every day—including the conscious and unconscious biases that shape the words they use and the way they frame conversations with patients and families. This kind of “microethics” education aims to help doctors and patients alike achieve more compassionate care.

And in this week’s abstract, a new research tool from the lab of HMS geneticist Stephen Elledge can reveal a person’s entire viral history from a single drop of blood.

]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Robert Truog, a Harvard Medical School professor at Boston Children’s Hospital and director of the HMS Center for Bioethics, teaches doctors and nurses to become more aware of the ethical decisions they make every day—including the conscious and unconscious biases that shape the words they use and the way they frame conversations with patients and families. This kind of “microethics” education aims to help doctors and patients alike achieve more compassionate care.

And in this week’s abstract, a new research tool from the lab of HMS geneticist Stephen Elledge can reveal a person’s entire viral history from a single drop of blood.

]]> Medicine and Morality Harvard Medical School 00:21:19 How do doctors resolve ethical dilemmas hidden in everyday patient care? How do doctors resolve ethical dilemmas hidden in everyday patient care? false full 28 3d93ab27-15d9-4a5b-922f-c1dc56fbdcbd Your Digital Phenotype John Brownstein, HMS associate professor of pediatrics at Boston Children’s Hospital, explains why your most important Facebook friend might be your doctor. Brownstein, a computational epidemiologist, also describes how our online behavior forms a “digital phenotype” that says more about our health than we might think.

And in this week’s abstract, HMS neurobiologists discover a new pathway in the brain that might help explain how antipsychotic drugs work. Read more about this finding from the lab of HMS neurobiologist Bernardo Sabatini.

]]> Wed, 20 May 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ John Brownstein, HMS associate professor of pediatrics at Boston Children’s Hospital, explains why your most important Facebook friend might be your doctor. Brownstein, a computational epidemiologist, also describes how our online behavior forms a “digital phenotype” that says more about our health than we might think.

And in this week’s abstract, HMS neurobiologists discover a new pathway in the brain that might help explain how antipsychotic drugs work. Read more about this finding from the lab of HMS neurobiologist Bernardo Sabatini.

]]> Your Digital Phenotype Harvard Medical School 00:15:55 John Brownstein mines social media to track disease John Brownstein mines social media to track disease false full 27 de3bc59d-7764-48cc-ba3b-ca747b2bdbcb Digging into Ancient DNA David Reich, professor of genetics at HMS, studies modern and ancient DNA to probe human history and learn about health and disease. In this podcast, he shares his excitement about new genetic technologies and tells the story of his winding path from social studies and physics to becoming one of the world's foremost population geneticists. And in this month's abstract, HMS geneticist Connie Cepko is investigating a new antioxidant gene therapy in mouse models of inherited blindness. Read more about her work: Seeing the Light.

]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ David Reich, professor of genetics at HMS, studies modern and ancient DNA to probe human history and learn about health and disease. In this podcast, he shares his excitement about new genetic technologies and tells the story of his winding path from social studies and physics to becoming one of the world's foremost population geneticists. And in this month's abstract, HMS geneticist Connie Cepko is investigating a new antioxidant gene therapy in mouse models of inherited blindness. Read more about her work: Seeing the Light.

]]> Digging into Ancient DNA Harvard Medical School 00:16:35 David Reich unravels prehistoric genetic code to explore human history David Reich unravels prehistoric genetic code to explore human history false full 26 08cc6c84-a517-4b37-a3e4-c3d25e149587 The Future of Science For many students and young researchers today, pursuing a career in science can seem more frightening than energizing. A wealth of qualified postdocs seeking a limited number of academic positions, ever-shrinking funding, and pressure to publish all fuel a hypercompetitive atmosphere in which the quality of science can suffer. In this month's conversation, postdocs Kristin Krukenberg and Jessica Polka, lead organizers of Future of Research and authors of the Science article Making Science a Desirable Career, discuss ways the scientific enterprise can be changed to alleviate some of these challenges and make room for the next generation.

And in this month's abstract, a study by genetics professor Susan Dymecki finds a new twist to serotonin neurons in the brain. Read more about the work here.

]]> Sun, 15 Mar 2015 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ For many students and young researchers today, pursuing a career in science can seem more frightening than energizing. A wealth of qualified postdocs seeking a limited number of academic positions, ever-shrinking funding, and pressure to publish all fuel a hypercompetitive atmosphere in which the quality of science can suffer. In this month's conversation, postdocs Kristin Krukenberg and Jessica Polka, lead organizers of Future of Research and authors of the Science article Making Science a Desirable Career, discuss ways the scientific enterprise can be changed to alleviate some of these challenges and make room for the next generation.

And in this month's abstract, a study by genetics professor Susan Dymecki finds a new twist to serotonin neurons in the brain. Read more about the work here.

]]> The Future of Science Harvard Medical School 00:24:54 Young researchers call for change to make scientific careers sustainable Young researchers call for change to make scientific careers sustainable false full 25 d775d985-f8b8-44a2-9b05-dc3bbe087deb The Methodical Adventurer Amy Wagers, professor of stem cell and regenerative biology at Harvard and Joslin Diabetes Center, is motivated by both the prospect of treating disease and the thrill of discovery. Watch for the Winter 2013 issue of Harvard Medicine magazine for a Q&A with her.

]]> Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Amy Wagers, professor of stem cell and regenerative biology at Harvard and Joslin Diabetes Center, is motivated by both the prospect of treating disease and the thrill of discovery. Watch for the Winter 2013 issue of Harvard Medicine magazine for a Q&A with her.

]]> The Methodical Adventurer Harvard Medical School 00:07:21 Stem cell researcher Amy Wagers enjoys the thrill of discovery Stem cell researcher Amy Wagers enjoys the thrill of discovery false full 24 348ce992-3199-4bf7-9533-831040374357 Psychosocial Healing Plastic surgeon Sumner Slavin has pioneered methods of tissue reconstruction for patients—including women with breast cancer—to restore body parts to a more usual appearance. After spending time in the Middle East, he also started a fellowship program to teach plastic surgeons from the region advanced techniques and procedures. Slavin is an HMS associate clinical professor of surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and serves in a number of leadership roles.

]]> Mon, 12 Nov 2012 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Plastic surgeon Sumner Slavin has pioneered methods of tissue reconstruction for patients—including women with breast cancer—to restore body parts to a more usual appearance. After spending time in the Middle East, he also started a fellowship program to teach plastic surgeons from the region advanced techniques and procedures. Slavin is an HMS associate clinical professor of surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and serves in a number of leadership roles.

]]> Psychosocial Healing Harvard Medical School 00:10:04 A plastic surgeon finds new ways to soothe physical and emotional wounds A plastic surgeon finds new ways to soothe physical and emotional wounds false full 23 ec00b7cb-e9d7-490c-96ed-498d4531225b Heart Matters Jonathan and Christine Seidman —both professors at Harvard Medical School—run a household and a lab together. They’ve been collaborating for decades to explore the causes of hereditary heart disease, especially hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and their skills in this area complement each other perfectly. Jonathan Seidman is a PhD and geneticist while Christine Seidman—who also has an appointment at Brigham and Women’s Hospital—is an MD and cardiologist.

]]> Thu, 4 Oct 2012 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Jonathan and Christine Seidman —both professors at Harvard Medical School—run a household and a lab together. They’ve been collaborating for decades to explore the causes of hereditary heart disease, especially hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and their skills in this area complement each other perfectly. Jonathan Seidman is a PhD and geneticist while Christine Seidman—who also has an appointment at Brigham and Women’s Hospital—is an MD and cardiologist.

]]> Heart Matters Harvard Medical School 00:10:15 Husband-wife team studies the genetics of cardiac disease Husband-wife team studies the genetics of cardiac disease false full 22 6714a7c6-fd9b-4940-ba51-ec6e65fb267a The Case for Curiosity Medical innovations build upon basic, curiosity-driven research—that is, research done in yeast and flies and other organisms without a specific application in mind. In this podcast, four scientists argue that it is essential for labs to continue exploring how life works. After listening to the podcast, read the related feature story.

]]> Wed, 25 Jul 2012 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Medical innovations build upon basic, curiosity-driven research—that is, research done in yeast and flies and other organisms without a specific application in mind. In this podcast, four scientists argue that it is essential for labs to continue exploring how life works. After listening to the podcast, read the related feature story.

]]> The Case for Curiosity Harvard Medical School 00:09:22 Basic science lays the foundation for tomorrow's medical breakthroughs Basic science lays the foundation for tomorrow's medical breakthroughs false full 21 19fda16f-a62c-410b-83b6-aa033dfb0851 Evolution of the Patient-Doctor Relationship Robert Truog—an HMS professor and a senior associate in critical care medicine at Children’s Hospital Boston—reflects on the evolving patient-doctor relationship. He recently authored a perspective piece on the topic in the New England Journal of Medicine. In addition to being a practicing physician, Truog has a master’s degree in philosophy, and he holds a leadership role in the HMS Division of Medical Ethics.

]]> Thu, 31 May 2012 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Robert Truog—an HMS professor and a senior associate in critical care medicine at Children’s Hospital Boston—reflects on the evolving patient-doctor relationship. He recently authored a perspective piece on the topic in the New England Journal of Medicine. In addition to being a practicing physician, Truog has a master’s degree in philosophy, and he holds a leadership role in the HMS Division of Medical Ethics.

]]> Evolution of the Patient-Doctor Relationship Harvard Medical School 00:12:25 A physician reflects on power shifts over the decades A physician reflects on power shifts over the decades false full 20 77a0e1f9-a2c4-4985-b2ff-cd2ff94e1fff Supreme Court Considers Health Reform Last month, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case with sweeping implications for U.S. health care. Gregory Curfman, an HMS assistant professor and executive editor of the New England Journal of Medicine, scored a coveted ticket to the proceedings. He shared insight and analysis with faculty and students during a recent Medical Education Grand Rounds presentation on campus.

At issue is the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, which was passed by Congress in 2010. The court’s decision—expected in June—could influence the race for the White House and shape health care policy for years to come.

Extended audio is available from this HMS event.

]]> Wed, 25 Apr 2012 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Last month, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case with sweeping implications for U.S. health care. Gregory Curfman, an HMS assistant professor and executive editor of the New England Journal of Medicine, scored a coveted ticket to the proceedings. He shared insight and analysis with faculty and students during a recent Medical Education Grand Rounds presentation on campus.

At issue is the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, which was passed by Congress in 2010. The court’s decision—expected in June—could influence the race for the White House and shape health care policy for years to come.

Extended audio is available from this HMS event.

]]> Supreme Court Considers Health Reform Harvard Medical School 00:07:17 Decision will shape policy for years to come Decision will shape policy for years to come false full 19 5546f31b-72b0-483e-93a0-4adbf305117f Origins of Life Jack Szostak, an HMS professor of genetics at Massachusetts General Hospital, shared the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for work he completed in the 1980s on telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. But he hasn’t worked on telomeres in years. In fact, he completely shifted fields in the early 1990s. Now he’s working to build primitive cells in the laboratory. Learn more about Szostak in the Spring 2012 issue of Harvard Medicine magazine.

]]> Fri, 20 Apr 2012 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Jack Szostak, an HMS professor of genetics at Massachusetts General Hospital, shared the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for work he completed in the 1980s on telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. But he hasn’t worked on telomeres in years. In fact, he completely shifted fields in the early 1990s. Now he’s working to build primitive cells in the laboratory. Learn more about Szostak in the Spring 2012 issue of Harvard Medicine magazine.

]]> Origins of Life Harvard Medical School 00:07:06 Nobel Laureate Jack Szostak seeks to build primitive cells Nobel Laureate Jack Szostak seeks to build primitive cells false full 18 acb96a7a-ae83-42e2-a1dc-60c81f126a4d 3D Mammography Gains Momentum HMS Instructor of Radiology Phoebe Freer explains the benefits of tomosynthesis, an imaging tool developed at Massachusetts General Hospital to enhance breast cancer screening. During a tomosynthesis exam, a camera moves in an arc over the patient, taking a series of low-dose images, which get stitched together by software. Radiologists use the resulting 3D compilation to find tumors that might be hiding and scrutinize potential problem areas before worrying patients.

This podcast also explores 3D tissue models developed in the Brugge laboratory to study cancer. Plus, Professor of Radiology Tina Young Poussaint at Children's Hospital Boston shares her perspective.

]]> Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS Instructor of Radiology Phoebe Freer explains the benefits of tomosynthesis, an imaging tool developed at Massachusetts General Hospital to enhance breast cancer screening. During a tomosynthesis exam, a camera moves in an arc over the patient, taking a series of low-dose images, which get stitched together by software. Radiologists use the resulting 3D compilation to find tumors that might be hiding and scrutinize potential problem areas before worrying patients.

This podcast also explores 3D tissue models developed in the Brugge laboratory to study cancer. Plus, Professor of Radiology Tina Young Poussaint at Children's Hospital Boston shares her perspective.

]]> 3D Mammography Gains Momentum Harvard Medical School 00:13:48 New imaging tool poised to transform breast cancer screening New imaging tool poised to transform breast cancer screening false full 17 dca78551-b47e-4a83-aab4-93c7d7f68cba Metamorphosis of a Medical Student Everything changes during the third year of medical school. Leaving classrooms for the clinic, students begin to apply lessons learned from textbooks, lectures and labs to real patients. And for the first time, future MDs begin to feel like doctors.

Learn about this intense—and rewarding—year, known at Harvard Medical School as the Principal Clinical Experience, or PCE. Listen as students and faculty members share, based on personal experiences, how the approach fosters mentoring, communication and empathy.

Interviewees include HMS student Kat Wakeham and her mentor David Hirsh, an HMS assistant professor of medicine at Cambridge Health Alliance.

]]> Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Everything changes during the third year of medical school. Leaving classrooms for the clinic, students begin to apply lessons learned from textbooks, lectures and labs to real patients. And for the first time, future MDs begin to feel like doctors.

Learn about this intense—and rewarding—year, known at Harvard Medical School as the Principal Clinical Experience, or PCE. Listen as students and faculty members share, based on personal experiences, how the approach fosters mentoring, communication and empathy.

Interviewees include HMS student Kat Wakeham and her mentor David Hirsh, an HMS assistant professor of medicine at Cambridge Health Alliance.

]]> Metamorphosis of a Medical Student Harvard Medical School 00:16:18 Third-year experiences in the clinic spur a remarkable transformation Third-year experiences in the clinic spur a remarkable transformation false full 16 825bddb9-a2a8-4059-8965-46420e6d6a3a Transforming Drug Discovery Marc Kirschner, head of the Harvard Medical School Department of Systems Biology, describes a new initiative that takes aim at the alarming slowdown in the development of new and lifesaving drugs. Plus, Professor of Genetics David Reich is studying DNA from an ancient finger bone to shed light on the dawn of humanity. Image by Martin Sorger.

]]> Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Marc Kirschner, head of the Harvard Medical School Department of Systems Biology, describes a new initiative that takes aim at the alarming slowdown in the development of new and lifesaving drugs. Plus, Professor of Genetics David Reich is studying DNA from an ancient finger bone to shed light on the dawn of humanity. Image by Martin Sorger.

]]> Transforming Drug Discovery Harvard Medical School 00:10:07 false full 15 baa395af-fa08-4414-bce8-36368044e3d6 Under 6 and Overweight Elsie Taveras, an assistant professor of population medicine and of pediatrics at HMS, discusses a new Institute of Medicine report on early childhood obesity. Plus, Assistant Professor of Cell Biology Stephen Liberles explores how mice and rats sense predators. Image by Nazdravie/iSockphoto.

]]> Tue, 26 Jul 2011 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Elsie Taveras, an assistant professor of population medicine and of pediatrics at HMS, discusses a new Institute of Medicine report on early childhood obesity. Plus, Assistant Professor of Cell Biology Stephen Liberles explores how mice and rats sense predators. Image by Nazdravie/iSockphoto.

]]> Under 6 and Overweight Harvard Medical School 00:11:21 false full 14 630b6767-19a6-4312-a8de-575ccae417a5 Building a Sustainable Future Harvard Medical School Professor of Systems Biology Pam Silver is engineering organisms that produce fuel and even food. Find out how she’s working to build a sustainable future through synthetic biology. Plus, Nancy Keating, an HMS associate professor of health care policy, sheds light on one aspect of the debate over the rising costs of health care.

]]> Thu, 23 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Harvard Medical School Professor of Systems Biology Pam Silver is engineering organisms that produce fuel and even food. Find out how she’s working to build a sustainable future through synthetic biology. Plus, Nancy Keating, an HMS associate professor of health care policy, sheds light on one aspect of the debate over the rising costs of health care.

]]> Building a Sustainable Future Harvard Medical School 00:10:55 Researchers are engineering organisms that produce fuel and even food Researchers are engineering organisms that produce fuel and even food false full 13 8bc92db4-0cdc-4e28-9ea3-05d96f3ce9cf Are You Getting Enough Sleep? According to research by Elizabeth Klerman, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, most adults should be getting 8.5 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Learn about her study and about the benefits of a good night’s sleep. Plus, HMS Associate Professor of Medicine Julia Wang explores what causes the immune system to attack healthy cells and tissues by mistake. Photo by Jojomarie/stock.xchng.

]]> Mon, 23 May 2011 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ According to research by Elizabeth Klerman, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, most adults should be getting 8.5 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Learn about her study and about the benefits of a good night’s sleep. Plus, HMS Associate Professor of Medicine Julia Wang explores what causes the immune system to attack healthy cells and tissues by mistake. Photo by Jojomarie/stock.xchng.

]]> Are You Getting Enough Sleep? Harvard Medical School 00:08:51 false full 12 b079cea9-4a13-4b8b-895b-2f0847a5dcf7 Human Genome Turns 10 A draft sequence of the human genome was first published in 2001. Ten years later, David Altshuler, Harvard Medical School professor of genetics, discusses how the Human Genome Project has changed the landscape of biomedical research. Plus, a study by HMS Professor of Neurobiology Qiufu Ma sheds light on the relationship between itch and pain. Image by Clix/stock.xchng.

]]> Thu, 10 Mar 2011 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ A draft sequence of the human genome was first published in 2001. Ten years later, David Altshuler, Harvard Medical School professor of genetics, discusses how the Human Genome Project has changed the landscape of biomedical research. Plus, a study by HMS Professor of Neurobiology Qiufu Ma sheds light on the relationship between itch and pain. Image by Clix/stock.xchng.

]]> Human Genome Turns 10 Harvard Medical School 00:10:19 false full 11 d30a0571-d82d-4d35-a557-d02119f3b430 Powerful Placebo HMS Associate Professor of Medicine Ted Kaptchuk defines placebo effects as the self-healing capabilities embedded in the ritual of medicine. Find out why he’s trying to understand the magnitude, duration and boundaries of these effects. Plus, in the process of studying the genetic roots of a horrific disease, HMS Professor of Cell Biology Bjorn Olsen and colleagues discover a new way to create adult stem cells. Photo by Christopher Bernard/iStock.

]]> Thu, 10 Feb 2011 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS Associate Professor of Medicine Ted Kaptchuk defines placebo effects as the self-healing capabilities embedded in the ritual of medicine. Find out why he’s trying to understand the magnitude, duration and boundaries of these effects. Plus, in the process of studying the genetic roots of a horrific disease, HMS Professor of Cell Biology Bjorn Olsen and colleagues discover a new way to create adult stem cells. Photo by Christopher Bernard/iStock.

]]> Powerful Placebo Harvard Medical School 00:09:23 false full 10 33a58208-0f4f-4221-9e5c-5217b1740664 How to Make a Doctor We ask some Bostonians to envision a doctor of the future and bring their questions about medical training to HMS Dean for Education Thomas Michel. We also speak with medical students who are learning that research isn’t easy. Plus, a new topical cream disables herpesvirus in a molecular two-punch knockout. Photo by Jan Reiss.

]]> Mon, 9 Feb 2009 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ We ask some Bostonians to envision a doctor of the future and bring their questions about medical training to HMS Dean for Education Thomas Michel. We also speak with medical students who are learning that research isn’t easy. Plus, a new topical cream disables herpesvirus in a molecular two-punch knockout. Photo by Jan Reiss.

]]> How to Make a Doctor Harvard Medical School 00:16:54 false full 9 16bf5bc4-5ec7-4b2e-8c7c-28252b5df92a Working the System HMS professor Peter Sorger shares his perspectives on the emerging field of systems biology, and we visit the lab of Roy Kishony, where researchers are using mathematical models to probe the evolution of drug resistant bacteria. Plus, the best-laid plans of mice and men have gone awry again; scientists tell us how differences in the mouse and human brain are complicating Alzheimer’s research. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with Peter Sorger.

]]> Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS professor Peter Sorger shares his perspectives on the emerging field of systems biology, and we visit the lab of Roy Kishony, where researchers are using mathematical models to probe the evolution of drug resistant bacteria. Plus, the best-laid plans of mice and men have gone awry again; scientists tell us how differences in the mouse and human brain are complicating Alzheimer’s research. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with Peter Sorger.

]]> Working the System Harvard Medical School 00:16:57 false full 8 059b4e63-b150-46af-988b-7ad82fd197a8 Inside the Brain's Black Box Adrian Ivinson, director of the Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center, explains why researchers need to collaborate to tackle neurodegenerative diseases, and reporter Yvonna Reekie brings us the latest on autism spectrum disorders. Plus, a team has discovered how beetles and bacteria form a symbiotic relationship—one that ultimately results in the destruction of pine forests.

]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Adrian Ivinson, director of the Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center, explains why researchers need to collaborate to tackle neurodegenerative diseases, and reporter Yvonna Reekie brings us the latest on autism spectrum disorders. Plus, a team has discovered how beetles and bacteria form a symbiotic relationship—one that ultimately results in the destruction of pine forests.

]]> Inside the Brain's Black Box Harvard Medical School 00:16:54 false full 7 7e1df1e8-b2b3-41f2-9fba-39632611ef52 Your Genome, Your Future HMS professor David Altshuler discusses the relationship between human genetic variation and disease, and HMS professor George Church explains the complexities of the Personal Genome Project. Plus, we learn whether drug sales are influenced by direct-to-consumer advertising. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with David Altshuler.

]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS professor David Altshuler discusses the relationship between human genetic variation and disease, and HMS professor George Church explains the complexities of the Personal Genome Project. Plus, we learn whether drug sales are influenced by direct-to-consumer advertising. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with David Altshuler.

]]> Your Genome, Your Future Harvard Medical School 00:18:55 false full 6 acdb66fb-89e8-48c0-9745-0d99e1c1436b Striving for Global Health Nobel Laureate Eric Chivian discusses the connection between biodiversity and human disease, and Yvonna Reekie examines the emerging problem of drug-resistant tuberculosis, which is plaguing countries worldwide. Plus, using an innovative approach, researchers halt the spread of HIV in an animal model. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with Eric Chivian.

]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ Nobel Laureate Eric Chivian discusses the connection between biodiversity and human disease, and Yvonna Reekie examines the emerging problem of drug-resistant tuberculosis, which is plaguing countries worldwide. Plus, using an innovative approach, researchers halt the spread of HIV in an animal model. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with Eric Chivian.

]]> Striving for Global Health Harvard Medical School 00:17:27 false full 5 92a2eeb6-43fa-4e02-9ae3-e0ce08588e0b And Coverage for All? HMS associate professor of medicine Stephanie Woolhandler shares her views on universal healthcare, and Yvonna Reekie takes you for a ride on the Family Van, which provides free education, counseling, support and healthcare to Boston’s economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Plus, biology enters “The Matrix” through a new computer language.

]]> Thu, 24 Jul 2008 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS associate professor of medicine Stephanie Woolhandler shares her views on universal healthcare, and Yvonna Reekie takes you for a ride on the Family Van, which provides free education, counseling, support and healthcare to Boston’s economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Plus, biology enters “The Matrix” through a new computer language.

]]> And Coverage for All? Harvard Medical School 00:12:37 false full 4 c83aa9b2-0c32-4cea-8576-c9fabfd02eb3 The Art of Perception HMS professor of neurobiology Margaret Livingstone uses art to understand how we perceive and process visual stimuli, and HMS professor of pediatrics Charles Nelson employs noninvasive techniques to measure the brain activity of children while they look at faces. Plus, you’re more microbe than mammal—at least according to your latest cell count. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with Margaret Livingstone as well as an extended interview (mp3) with Charles Nelson.

]]> Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS professor of neurobiology Margaret Livingstone uses art to understand how we perceive and process visual stimuli, and HMS professor of pediatrics Charles Nelson employs noninvasive techniques to measure the brain activity of children while they look at faces. Plus, you’re more microbe than mammal—at least according to your latest cell count. For supplemental information, listen to an extended interview (mp3) with Margaret Livingstone as well as an extended interview (mp3) with Charles Nelson.

]]> The Art of Perception Harvard Medical School 00:13:48 false full 3 dafe3441-4f8b-4d76-8f4c-2688f7b4bd92 The Secrets of Aging HMS associate professor of pathology David Sinclair is getting under the hood of the molecular machinery that drives longevity, and HMS assistant professor of medicine Anne Fabiny is preparing students for an aging population. In addition, an HMS lab discovers a new cell death process with links to cancer.

]]> Thu, 15 May 2008 17:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS associate professor of pathology David Sinclair is getting under the hood of the molecular machinery that drives longevity, and HMS assistant professor of medicine Anne Fabiny is preparing students for an aging population. In addition, an HMS lab discovers a new cell death process with links to cancer.

]]> The Secrets of Aging Harvard Medical School 00:13:24 false full 2 a59cba9b-6240-438f-a6a4-3684cd956ba4 The Science of Social Networks HMS professor of medical sociology Nicholas Christakis examines how social networks affect our health, and an HMS student relies on social networking websites to rally the Kenyan diaspora. Plus, an HMS lab makes a startling discovery with implications for an emerging field called personalized medicine.

]]> Thu, 7 Feb 2008 18:00:00 +0000 social@hms.harvard.edu (Harvard Medical School) https://hms.harvard.edu/ HMS professor of medical sociology Nicholas Christakis examines how social networks affect our health, and an HMS student relies on social networking websites to rally the Kenyan diaspora. Plus, an HMS lab makes a startling discovery with implications for an emerging field called personalized medicine.

]]> The Science of Social Networks Harvard Medical School 00:13:09 false full 1