Ep 2. What's Living in You?

In the second episode of NOVA Wonders season 1, titled "What's Living in You?," we dive deep into the mysteries of the human microbiome - the trillions of microbes that live inside us and play a crucial role in our health and well-being.

The episode starts with a trip to a sewage treatment plant, where scientists are using advanced DNA sequencing technology to explore the microbial communities found in our waste. From there, we follow several researchers as they explore different aspects of the microbiome, including its relationship to diseases like obesity and depression.

We meet Dr. Rob Knight, one of the leading experts on the human microbiome, as he explains how bacterial communities form and evolve over time. We also see how he and other scientists are using new technologies like CRISPR gene editing to manipulate the microbiome and potentially cure diseases.

In addition to the science, the episode also explores the ethical implications of manipulating our microbiomes. Should we be tinkering with these complex systems without fully understanding the consequences? How do we balance the potential benefits with the unknown risks?

Along the way, we also get to know some of the microbes that call us home, from the friendly bacteria that help us digest food to the harmful pathogens that can make us sick. We discover how these tiny organisms communicate with and influence our bodies in ways that we are only beginning to understand.

Overall, "What's Living in You?" is a fascinating exploration of one of the most important and least understood aspects of our biology. It asks big questions about the future of medicine and the nature of our relationship with the microbial world. Whether you're interested in scientific research, healthcare, or just curious about how your body works, this episode of NOVA Wonders is not to be missed.