Topic: Malaria

2 chapters across the catalog

61: Mark My Words
3:25:26 - 3:31:03

61: Mark My Words

CRISPR, Gene Drives, Genetically Modified Mosquitoes

The use of CRISPR to create "gene drives" in mosquitoes is explained, showing how a single genetic trait can be forced to spread through an entire population. In 2020, 750 million genetically modified mosquitoes were released in Florida to combat Dengue and Zika. The hosts express concern that these "red-eyed" mutations violate Mendelian genetics and represent a dangerous level of biological interference.

47: Killer Wasp
8:47 - 10:23

47: Killer Wasp

Racial Narratives in Vaccine Promotion and Hydroxychloroquine

The media rollout of black medical professionals to promote vaccines is identified as a targeted narrative strategy for the African American community. Low COVID-19 rates in Africa are contrasted with the high impact in the United States, leading to speculation about the role of anti-malarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine. The conversation explores how the virus was initially perceived versus how it is currently marketed to different ethnic groups.