The Thought et al.

Dagny shares how she found her herself as a psychology student in her way to getting her Ph.D. and the value she has found in doing research. 

This episode covers microfluidics; what it is, how it works, and the technology's implications and numerous uses. Microfluidics uses extremely small volumes of fluid to create assays, cell cultures, and much more. We also talk about biphasic DNA amplification and the interdisciplinary nature of microfluidics. 

What do the brain, the liver, and the gut all have in common? The answer: each of these biological systems are affected in Familial Dysautonomia (FD). Frances, Valérie, and Seth sit down to discuss what FD is and the biological effects patients have as a result, their collaborative approach to research, and the genesis of the project. This episode is an in-depth view into their thought processes and teamwork to elucidate more about FD and it's treatment.

Susy Kohout explains how assumptions led to later findings that were unexpected with VSP channels. We cover what Voltage Sensing Phosphatases (VSPs) are, their important mechanism in the cell, research methods used to explore them, and what is still unknown. We also cover the importance of accepting other possibilities, collaborating, and being patient with research. 

Dr. Palmer explains what sleep is, its importance for both mental and physical health, and how to get a better night's sleep.

Seth Walk covers the microbiome, its role in overall health, germ-free mouse models, research and the gut-brain axis. 

What happens when viruses, like Herpes Simplex, infect neurons? What are the biological reasons why a virus would infect a neuron and how does infection alter neuronal function? Matt Taylor explains what is known on the subject, the innate immune response elicited, and the perplexing Superinfection Exclusion that occurs with neuroinvasion. Also discussed, the possible therapeutic uses for viruses in neuronal diseases and cancer.

This episode contains an in depth conversation regarding what it means to be a physician, the role of research in ultimately improving patient health, and genetic engineering. Undertoned by biology and pharmacology, this episode is filled with insight into medicine and its relationship to research. Dr. Thom Hughes is a professor of Molecular Biology, Biophysics, and Neuroscience as MSU. 

Dr. Mazer provides great insight into the visual cortex and the importance it holds regarding attention. He studies mid- and high level visual processing and the relationship between visual perception, eye movements, and neural circuits.  We cover selective attention, it's application in everyday life (i.e ADHD and addiction) and influential classes and books for those looking for more inspiration

Steve Eiger is an associate professor at MSU and teaches physiology and the capstone class for CBN majors. We talk about his diverse life path, how he found himself eventually teaching, and much more.