DNA Goes BOLDLY
from What The If? Hosted by Philip Shane, Matt Stanley, Gabrielle Paniccia
Apologies for the delay in posting episodes! Holiday and travel got the best of us. But we're back, baby! ---- WHAT THE IF we could trade genes like playing cards? Scientists have discovered that fungi possess "Starship elements" - massive genetic cassettes that jump between species carrying cargo genes for superpowers like heavy metal resistance. These DNA chunks got their Star Trek names because researchers kept seeing Vulcan hand signs in their data when one fungus had the element and another didn't. From Kirk sequences that captain the whole operation to the possibility of stealing radiation resistance from a handshake, explore a world where your genome becomes as swappable as your wardrobe. Discover why OSHA might regulate genetic exchanges, how you could wake up having lost your Kardashian-level beauty overnight, and why shaking hands with Keith Richards could grant immortality. Just don't accidentally trade away your radiation-proofing during a one-night stand. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention
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