What can wildlife evolution teach us about human cancer?

In this month's topic-focused episode, science communication expert and author Zoe Kean shares insights from her book "Why We Like This", delving into the fascinating parallels between wildlife health and human diseases, particularly cancer. She explores the paradoxes of evolutionary biology related to aging, sex, and cancer, and how cancer is an ancient and universal phenomenon in multicellular life. We learn about transmissible cancers in Tasmanian devils, the role of genetic diversity and evolution in cancer resistance among species like elephants, whales, and naked mole rats, and the application of ecological and evolutionary theories to cancer treatment strategies. Zoe also highlights the impact of inbreeding and genetic bottlenecks on endangered species’ health and vulnerability, and the potential for cross-disciplinary research in conservation and medicine. By understanding cancer through evolution, innovative therapies and prevention methods may emerge, offering hope for both human health and wildlife conservation. This episode was a very unique one, offering a fresh perspective on disease and conservation, highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary thinking in tackling complex biological challenges.

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Music by Thomas Hagen from SLAUX