The Design of ERVs and AI, Optimism, & Long Life | Stars, Cells, and God

Join Fazale “Fuz” Rana and Jeff Zweerink as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence.

 

The Design of ERVs

For many people, the shared ERV sequences in the human and great ape genomes evince common ancestry and an evolutionary origin for humanity. Yet, new discoveries about the physiological role of ERVs—such as their contribution to the innate immune system—makes possible another interpretation of ERVs in the human genome. In this episode biochemist Fuz Rana discusses the latest insight into ERV molecular biology, exemplified by the ERV-encoded protein supressyn, and explores the question: “Can a creation model explain the occurrence of ERV sequences in the human genome?”

 

Resources:

Evolution and Antiviral Activity of a Human Protein of Retroviral Origin 

Additional Resources:

Endogenous Retroviruses Help Fight Tumors

Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs) Protect Early-Stage Human Embryos

 

AI, Optimism, and Long Life

In an era where AI developments show great potential and great peril, ongoing research indicates that optimism plays an important role in increased longevity and health. These results affirm a repeated refrain from Scripture that we are to rejoice, be content, and have hope in all situations. We will discuss the studies leading to this conclusion as well as make the important biblical connections.

 

Resources:

Dual Use of Artificial-Intelligence-Powered Drug Discovery

Optimism, Lifestyle, and Longevity in a Racially Diverse Cohort of Women