Essentials: Genes & the Inheritance of Memories Across Generations | Dr. Oded Rechavi

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Oded Rechavi, a professor at Tel Aviv University who studies genetics, epigenetics and the inheritance of acquired traits. We discuss how DNA, RNA and epigenetic mechanisms determine what information can pass between generations, and why acquired traits are generally not thought to be inherited. We also explain research in C. elegans showing how small RNAs can transmit antiviral resistance and influence behavior across generations, what these findings might mean for mammals and humans, and potential future applications for reproductive health and diagnostics.

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Timestamps

(00:00:00) Oded Rechavi

(00:00:24) DNA, Genome, RNA & Proteins

(00:03:43) Somatic vs. Germ Cells; Inheritance

(00:06:05) Sponsor: Eight Sleep

(00:07:23) Lamarck vs. Darwin, Inheritance of Acquired Traits

(00:09:45) Weismann Barrier, Epigenetic Reprogramming

(00:13:05) RNA & Transgenerational Inheritance

(00:13:54) Model Organisms, C. elegans

(00:16:59) Inheritance of Acquired Traits in C. elegans

(00:17:14) Sponsor: AG1

(00:18:40) RNA Interference, Small RNAs & Gene Silencing

(00:22:46) Viral Resistance Across Generations

(00:24:53) Small RNAs, Mammals & Inherited Effects

(00:26:00) Brain Activity, Memory & Heritable Information

(00:28:46) Neuronal Small RNAs & Behavior Across Generations

(00:29:59) Germ Cells, Development & Heritable RNA

(00:31:29) Sponsor: LMNT

(00:33:11) Future Applications, Exercise, IVF & RNA Diagnostics

(00:35:16) Acknowledgements

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