We’re digging back into our archives with an episode with bioengineer Polly Fordyce. Polly studies the form and function of proteins. She refers to proteins as the “workhorses” that make things in the body happen, and her study of these molecules reveals a greater understanding of human life. We hope you’ll tune in to this conversation again, and enjoy.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Polly FordycePolly’s Lab: The Fordyce LabConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Polly Fordyce, a professor of bioengineering and genetics at Stanford University.(00:01:51) What are Proteins?The basics of proteins and their crucial roles in the body.(00:05:01) Protein Structure and FunctionThe relationship between protein structure and function.(00:07:07) Innovations in Protein ResearchThe high-throughput technologies used in the lab to study protein functions.(00:09:44) Mutant Proteins and Functional VariantsHow mutations in proteins affect their function and structure, using the example of the protein PafA.(00:14:24) The Impact of Protein Research on MedicineInsight into how protein mutations can aid in developing targeted therapies.(00:17:37) Proteins and DNA InteractionThe role of proteins in reading DNA and regulating gene expression.(00:21:41) Transcription Factors and DNA BindingThe relationship between transcription factors and specific DNA sequences.(00:25:36) Mechanisms of Transcription ActivationThe process of transcription activation and the role of co-activators and RNA polymerase.(00:28:15) Future Directions in Protein ResearchThe future of protein research, including making advanced research tools more accessible.(00:30:36) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.