Synthetic biology to reprogram life

What if we could screen the body for early signs of disease by swallowing a tiny capsule, packed with futuristic diagnostic tools?

Prof. Timothy Lu, a synthetic biologist at MIT, draws on his combined expertise in computer programming, electrical engineering, and microbiology, to envision as an entirely new way of practicing preventative medicine.

The idea is that capsules packed with tiny electronics and genetically engineered living cells will eventually be used to spot health problems from inside the gut. Early signs of cancer could be detected without the need for a colonoscopy.

In this LLAMA podcast interview with Peter Bowes, Prof. Lu explains the principles of synthetic biology and why he believes it could help us all live healthier, longer lives.

Aging tactics for Gen-Xers and Millennials - Episode 87

The Beatles song, When I’m Sixty-Four, pays homage to the aging process and is a tribute to the value of enduring friendships. The light-hearted ditty encapsulates some of the values and aspirations of The SCAN Foundation, which focusses on improving the quality of health and life for older people. SCAN’s mission is to advance a coordinated and easily navigated system of high-quality services for older adults, preserving their dignity and independence. Bruce Chernof MD currently serves as the Foundation's President and Chief Executive Officer. In this LLAMA podcast interview with Peter Bowes, recorded at TEDMED, Dr. Chernof explains the challenges for all generations, as they get older, and why he believes embracing the Internet of Things will be crucial to healthy and active aging. He also suggests that the planning process for old age should start much earlier than most people realize, with the sharing economy playing a pivotal role in our way of life.