How do you save a species?: Breakthroughs from cheetahs, red wolves, and 'spicy' toads
Summary
This episode explores the science of animal conservation, featuring scientists discussing how genetic bottlenecks threaten cheetahs and how IVF techniques are being adapted for red wolves. The hosts also examine efforts to restore the natural toxicity of harlequin frogs to protect them from predators and the deadly chytrid fungus. Additionally, the show covers the FDA approval of a new orexin-mimicking drug for narcolepsy and a new simulation suggesting the moon may have formed in just five hours.
Topics discussed
Intro, suicide prevention charity, and cheetah disease history
Welcome and introduction to conservation science tools
Cheetah genetic bottleneck and the 1985 skin graft study
Cheetah population decline and assisted reproduction techniques
Female cheetah reproductive health and uterine pathologies
Red wolf conservation and challenges in canid reproduction
Developing IVF protocols for dogs: sperm and egg maturation
The first IVF dog puppies and personal anecdotes
Applying dog IVF to red wolves and cryopreservation
Ovary-on-a-chip technology for red wolf egg maturation
Transition to harlequin frogs and podcast sponsor ad
Harlequin frog conservation and the Chytrid fungus threat
The mystery of harlequin frog toxicity and defense mechanisms
Project to make frogs 'spicy' again via synthetic toxin
Field trials, cados, and the loss of the test population
Conservation lessons and success with other frog species
Tiny Show and Tell: New FDA-approved narcolepsy drug
Space topic: New simulations on the Moon's formation
Credits and recommendation for 'What Could Go Right'
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