Genetics
The supergene responsible for human creativity
As part of her life's work, Dr Lynne Kelly has been exploring the source of human creativity. And in so doing explaining why some people are genetically wired for success in the arts - and whether a… Audio
Our Changing World – Finding a cancer-causing genetic mutation
Almost 30 years ago a team of researchers banded together to investigate an aggressive form of stomach cancer that was responsible for early deaths in one Tauranga whānau.
Together, Kimi Hauora… Audio
Genomics and the future of gene technology in Aotearoa
Advances in the field of genomics (the study of DNA and genomes) have meant big leaps in our ability to sequence, understand and manipulate the genomes of living things. Damian Christie explores… Video, Audio
Our Changing World – Genomics in Aotearoa
From helping taonga species such as the kākāpō, to early identification of cancer, to tackling food security: New Zealand scientists are using genomics – the study of DNA or genetics – to find… Audio
Targeting bacteria, and health inequities
Māori and Pacific peoples are three to six times more likely to develop stomach cancer than New Zealanders with European ancestry. Claire Concannon visits a research team taking aim at this disparity.
…Dr Peter Sudmant on age and genetics
Genetics matter less the older you get, says a study out of the University of California. What are the implications of that for us? How should we use that information? Dr Peter Sudmant is an… Audio
NZ's top milking herd is small, but mighty
Taranaki dairy farmer Cliff Shearer's practices may seem old-fashioned, but they've helped him make his way into the history books. Audio
Summer science: Hybrid wildlife and mātauranga Māori
Should we intervene to prevent hybridisation between an endangered species and its common relative? In this week's summer science episode, two students from the Department of Science Communication at… Audio
Bulls for sale after Gabrielle - celebrating the wins
Kokopuru Station in northern Hawke's Bay had slips and sinkholes a-plenty but the Hallmark Angus cattle stud managed to rebuild the farm ahead of their annual bull sale. Audio
Neurogenetic conditions in Aotearoa
In September 2022, two New Zealand patients became the first in the world to participate in a phase 1 clinical trial testing a new therapy for a rare neurogenetic condition called myotonic dystrophy… Audio
Stock trading: Why NZ farmers import and export animals
New Zealand livestock has a top-class reputation internationally. Exports by sea are banned, so how else do we send animals offshore? Audio
Easing the way for farmers in difficult times at Field Days
Country Life is among drones, driverless tractors, nude sheep and comfy rocking chairs at the Central Districts Field Days, seeing what products are on offer to make the work of hard-pressed farmers… Audio
Summer science: Two stories about genetics
Two stories about genetics produced by students at the University of Otago's Department of Science Communication. Amanda Konyn investigates whether gene editing has a role in future pest control… Audio
Food for a happy gut: Tim Spector
Genetic epidemiologist and award winning author, Professor Tim Spector introduced the world to the wonders of the gut microbiome in his first book The Diet Myth. His latest book - Food for Life is an… Audio
Beware of DNA ancestry tests: Genomics Aotearoa
DNA ancestry tests might solve some personal curiosity - but are they gifting a treasure trove of data to third parties? Professor Peter Dearden, from the Department of Biochemstry at the University… Audio
Can your height increase your risk of some diseases?
If you're taller than average, your genes may affect your risk for a variety of diseases, a new study suggests. We're discussing this new study and weight loss drugs this morning with… Audio
From hard genetics to lifestyle genetics – how genes do, and don’t, predict our health and life outcomes
Prof. Andrew Shelling sorts fact from fiction when it comes to 'blaming your genes,' and discusses the role of genetic testing in controlling common diseases. From Raising the Bar Home Edition. Video, Audio
Study shows dog behaviour has little to do with breed
There is no end to the different stereotypes when it comes to dog breeds and perceived behaviour traits. However, recent research suggests traits may have less to do with breeds than previously… Audio
Hair sheep could be the answer to wool woes
Sheep with fur - not wool - are among the latest trials being undertaken by one of New Zealand's top breeders Derek Daniell of Wairere Stud, who is at the forefront of trends in sheep rearing. Audio
Single test identifies 50 genetic diseases
A DNA test has been developed to screen patients for a range of neurological and neuromuscular genetic diseases quicker and more accurately than existing tests. The technology is able to identify over… Audio