What if...? Genomics in Aotearoa

G2024•5m

Documentary

What if...? looks at the many and varied ways that genomics (the study of genomes/DNA) is being used in Aotearoa.

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Production

Aotearoa Science Agency, Radio New Zealand

Language

Status

Ended

First Aired

August 28, 2024

Last Aired

August 28, 2024

Networks

Radio New Zealand

Where to Watch

Region US · Lang EN

No providers available for this region.

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Seasons & Episodes

Select a season to view episodes. Reddit links may contain spoilers.

Season

What if... genomics could safeguard our food supply?

Air date: 2024-08-28

The rapid warming and periods of droughts as a result of climate change will impact our ability to grow food. Researchers are investigating ways that genomics can help safeguard our food security in the future.

What if... genomics could help save an endangered species?

Air date: 2024-08-28

In 2018, the kākāpō became the first species in the world to have its entire population’s genomes sequenced. How is the information being used today to help conservation?

What if... we can use genetic testing to beat cancer?

Air date: 2024-08-28

Around 25,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year in Aotearoa. Learn how genomics can help us detect cancer sooner and treat it more precisely.

What if... we sequenced every infectious disease in NZ?

Air date: 2024-08-28

During the Covid-19 pandemic, New Zealand researchers led the way in how to sequence the virus and in figuring out transmission puzzles.

What if... we sequenced every waterway in New Zealand?

Air date: 2024-08-28

Living things leave tiny traces of DNA as they move around their environment. Now scientists can determine the quality of a waterway by using e-DNA to see who lives there.

What if... genomics could protect New Zealand from invasive species?

Air date: 2024-08-28

New Zealand is constantly battling pests and predators that have become well-established, while trying to safeguard our country from a wide range of new threats. Could genomics provide us with new tools to keep our native flora and fauna safe from invaders?