Preventing the Unknown: Genetic Testing with Dr. Stuart Kim

About This Episode

Can you predict your future health using genetics? Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly explore advances in genetic testing, polygenic risk scores, and the future of genetics with geneticist Dr. Stuart Kim.

When did we start to detect gene markers? Learn about Mendelian genetics versus complex genetics and how the UK Biobank changed the field. How do you screen for genetic markers? We discuss polygenetic risk scores and candidate gene studies. Could you predict an ACL tear with genetics? What would you be looking for genetically? Is there a genetic reason why Chuck needs a root canal?

How can you use knowledge of genetics to enhance performance? Discover the case of cross country skier Eero Mantyranta and how he stumped the World Anti-Doping Agency. Is there such a thing as genetically cheating? We debate the value of genetics in athletics and if it can count for everything. When does genetics become eugenics?

How can genetic testing help athletes not get hurt? How will this impact recruiting decisions? We explore the ethics of recruiting off of genetics and how it could be used to benefit the athlete. Can you genetically code for mental fortitude? What is the role of genetic testing moving forward?

Thanks to our Patrons Michael Brown, David Rimer, John McKee, Tyler J., Leslie Murray, and Lawrence Harris for supporting us this week.

NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.