BIOL220 - Origins

Microbial Impact on Food: Spoilage, Fermentation, and Ecology

This episode unravels the science behind food spoilage and preservation, focusing on microbial mechanisms such as proteolysis in spoilage and fermentation's dual benefits for shelf life and nutrition. Discover how psychotolerant bacteria and secondary metabolites shape food ecology, enhance flavors, and ensure stability. Join us as we explore the profound influence of microorganisms on the foods we enjoy.

The Origins of Life: Panspermia, Prebiotic Soup, and RNA World

This episode examines the fascinating theories about life's origins, from panspermia and the discovery of amino acids on meteorites to the Prebiotic Soup model and Urey-Miller's groundbreaking experiment. We also discuss the RNA World hypothesis, ribozymes, and the evidence of ancient stromatolites. Join us as we unravel the science behind how life might have emerged on Earth and beyond.