Science Magazine Podcast Studying a shark-haunted island, and upgrading our microbiomes with engineered bacteria
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Jul 17, 2025 Join reporters Alexa Robles-Gil and Weston Whitaker as they dive into fascinating research. Alexa discusses the aftermath of the shark attack crisis on Réunion Island and how scientists are studying shark populations and developing measures to prevent future attacks. Weston then explores his innovative work on engineered bacteria designed to break down kidney stone precursors, revealing the complexities of cultivating these microbes in the gut. It's a thrilling blend of marine biology and cutting-edge microbiome engineering!
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Gut Microbiome as Therapeutic Target
- The gut microbiome influences many diseases and bodily functions beyond digestion.
- Its modifiability makes it an attractive target for therapeutic interventions.
Targeting Oxalate to Prevent Kidney Stones
- Oxalate contributes to kidney stones and no effective treatments exist for its excess absorption from the gut.
- Engineering gut bacteria to degrade oxalate offers a promising alternative to difficult dietary restrictions.
Engineering Bacterial Growth Control
- Engineer bacteria to consume red algae carbohydrate porphyran, not found in typical diets, to create an exclusive niche.
- Control engineered bacterial growth in the gut by providing or withdrawing porphyran as a growth switch.