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.

#382 “The Persistence Lab” Episode 1 — Can We Find Cures Faster?

#382 “The Persistence Lab” Episode 1 — Can We Find Cures Faster?

We are ecstatic to finally share that our host Kira Dineen is also hosting a brand new podcast that just launched, The Persistence Lab

This podcast, sponsored by AbbVie, pulls back the curtain on the hard, human work of health care innovation. Each episode dives into a real problem in medicine or health care and follows the people who are working to develop solutions. With immersive sound design and a three-act structure that puts story first, this series showcases the fresh thinking, bold ideas, and the unexpected paths that help turn optimism into outcomes. For U.S. audiences only.

To celebrate the launch we are sharing the first episode with you here on DNA Today, but be sure you are following The Persistence Lab on your favorite podcast platform using this link!  Don’t miss all the episodes this season! 

In this first episode of “The Persistence Lab,” we set out to answer, can we find cures faster

Our health and well-being impact every element of our lives. For patients with some of the most difficult-to-treat medical conditions, a cure is what they’re hoping for. How can we accelerate drug development to spur progress and turn bold ideas into real breakthroughs? The Persistence Lab launches with this episode to look at how AbbVie is empowering scientists to boldly rethink what it means to cure disease and accelerate care for patients. Please note that this episode is intended for U.S. audiences only.

Episode Discussion Topics:

  • The importance of clear definitions: functional vs. complete cures

  • Why developing universal medical cures is incredibly complex 

  • The role of clinical trials in developing potential medical cures

  • How AbbVie’s Pathway to Cures program fosters collaboration and innovation

  • The transformative impact of precision medicine and reverse translation

  • How AI, machine learning, and digital tools are helping scientists in the discovery and development of potential therapies

  • The emotional and practical significance of potential medical cures for patients and scientists

Relevant Resources: 


Don’t forget to follow The Persistence Lab on your favorite podcast platform using this link

#381 Charles Darwin’s Legacy: What He Got Right & What Science Learned Next

#381 Charles Darwin’s Legacy: What He Got Right & What Science Learned Next