DNA Today is a multi-award winning podcast and radio show exploring how genetics impacts our health.

Host/Producer Kira Dineen interviews leaders in genetics including genetic counselors, researchers, physicians and patient advocates.

New episodes every Friday.

DNA Today is broadcast Fridays at 10:30am EST on WHUS 91.7 FM in Connecticut.

#94 Legend of Sumeria: A Genetics Graphic Novel

#94 Legend of Sumeria: A Genetics Graphic Novel

Dr. Biju Parekkadan is a Co-Creator and Scientific Director of the hard science graphic novel, Legend of Sumeria. He is a Professor of Biomedical Engineering with a research lab that specializes in cell and genetic engineering. His discoveries have been published in prestigious journals with patented inventions that have led to the foundation of several companies. He received his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and a doctorate from the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology. In 2012, he was recognized by President Obama with an Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honor bestowed upon young researchers in the country. Dr. Parekkadan’s daily work in biotechnology research and education provides a unique perspective in the creation of the viable science behind Legend of Sumeria.

LegendofSumeriaPhoto.jpg

This Episode We Discuss:

  • The Premise of Legend of Sumeria

  • Inspiration to Start the Graphic Novel

  • Autoimmunity on the Molecular/Genetic Level

  • Conveying Scientific Concepts

  • The Current and Future Science Behind Legend of Sumeria

  • Genetic Privacy

  • Future of Gene Therapy

  • Bioethical Issues Raised in Legend of Sumeria

  • Team Behind the Graphic Novel

Be sure to check out the adult graphic novel on their stunning website and follow them on Twitter. Don’t forget to enter the book GIVEAWAY for the chance to win a copy of Legend of Sumeria! Just follow both our instagram accounts (@LegendOfSumeria and @DNAradio) and leave a comment on the photo above posted on both accounts to double your chance to win. Good luck!

Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today on December 7th, I interview author Laura Kieger and her son, Dr. Alexander Kieger who share their family’s courageous, century-long struggle with a rare genetic cancer syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis.  

New episodes are released on the first and third Fridays of the month. Can’t wait? There are 93 other episodes to explore in the meantime.

See what else I am up to on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and iTunes. Questions/inquiries can be sent to Kira at info@DNApodcast.com.

#95 Kieger Family on Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

#95 Kieger Family on Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

#93 Team Telomere

#93 Team Telomere