BROADCASTS.com

b'

This episode is all about neuronal apoptosis.\\xa0 In Dr. Mohanish Deshmukh\'s eyes, some cells are willing to undergo apoptosis, while others are very cautious.\\xa0 Understanding these differences could be the key to understanding, treating, or curing diseases that haunt us in modern times.\\xa0 Research in Dr. Deshmukh\\u2019s lab at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, focuses on pathways for neuronal apoptosis and the ways that survival and death work in different cells.

Apoptosis is programmed cell death.\\xa0 In apoptosis, cells commit "suicide" quietly to minimize inflammation and damage to their neighbors.\\xa0 Apoptosis is a normal and vital process which helps protect us from cancer and other disease states.\\xa0 However, it becomes a problem in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer\'s and ALS.\\xa0 When it comes to apoptosis, neurons are special.\\xa0 Neuronal apoptosis seems to be distinct from other cell types.

Listen in to hear how neurons resist triggers that would kill other cells.\\xa0 Also learn about the difference between apoptosis and necrosis, as well as how that understanding has changed over time.\\xa0 We discuss the importance of synaptic pruning.\\xa0 Finally, we speculate some on the possible presence and effect of bacteria in the brain.

About Dr. Deshmukh

Dr. Mohanish Deshmukh is a Professor of Cell Biology & Physiology and the Neuroscience Center at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.\\xa0

Visit the Deshmukh Lab website to learn more about current research.

Also follow the Deshmukh Lab on Instagram.

More Information

To get a background of apoptosis in other cells, check out\\xa0Episode 23: The Role of Apoptosis with Georgia Smith.\\xa0 She tells us about apoptosis in the context of influenza.

\\xa0

Any other questions?\\xa0\\xa0Let us know!\\xa0 We appreciate your feedback.

You can now support the podcast at\\xa0https://www.patreon.com/sfspodcast.\\xa0 Many thanks to our past and present supporters!\\xa0

Thanks to\\xa0Plant Warrior\\xa0for their support.\\xa0 Use discount code SFS10 at checkout for 10% off your purchase of plant-based protein.