Science Magazine Podcast Tickling in review, spores in the stratosphere, and longevity research
May 29, 2025
Michael Greshko, Online News Editor for Science Magazine, shares fascinating insights on capturing fungal spores in the stratosphere and the search for life signs on exoplanet K2-18b. Konstantina Kilteni, a neuroscientist, discusses the complex science of tickling and how it varies among individuals. Finally, Nobel Prize-winning biologist Venki Ramakrishnan dives into longevity research, exploring the science of aging and the quest for immortality, as detailed in his book.
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Scientist Hates Tickling But Laughs
- Konstantina Kilteni laughs a lot when tickled but hates the sensation herself.
- Her lab uses robotic devices to deliver controlled tickling stimuli, helping standardize research methods.
Two Types of Tickling Defined
- Tickling termed "gergalysis" is distinct from light, slow touch causing itching, called "kinesis."
- Gergalysis involves forceful stimulation of certain body parts and triggers uncontrollable laughter, unlike self-induced light touch.
Brain Activity During Tickling
- Brain imaging shows tickling activates areas for touch, movement, and vocalization even during anticipation.
- Little research exists on brain responses in people who aren't ticklish, presenting a research gap.
