UC San Diego (Audio)

Experts discuss recent advances in how maternal health and immune function during pregnancy affect infant development and long-term outcomes. Research focuses on immune adaptations, complications like preterm birth, and neuroimmune pathways, using techniques such as mass cytometry, spatial proteomics, and chemogenetics to identify biomarkers and mechanisms that guide prevention and treatment strategies. Sandy Ramos, M.D. Clinical Landscape and OGRS Opportunities Louise Laurent, M.D.,Ph.D. Single-Cell and Spatial Multi-Omic Insights into the Human Placenta (HUBMAP) Marni Jacobs, Ph.D. The MOM-Health Study and the MOHD Consortium Lars Bode, Ph.D. Human Milk Institute (HMI) Gretchen Bandoli, Ph.D. MotherToBaby Ina Stelzer, Ph.D. Reproductive Immunology Series: "Motherhood Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40666]

Explore key aspects of aging and menopause, focusing on women's health and how biological changes impact overall well-being. Experts discuss current research on healthy aging, including the role of physical activity, brain health, and hormone changes during menopause. They highlight how sex differences affect diseases like Alzheimer's and emphasize the importance of personalized approaches to treatment and prevention. The presentation also underscores ongoing studies and resources aimed at improving the quality of life for aging women through better understanding and support Linda Brubaker, M.D.,M.S. Clinical Landscape and OGRS Opportunities Amanda Lewis, Ph.D. Glycobiology (GLOW) Andrea LaCroix, Ph.D. Healthy Aging After Menopause Anthony Molina, Ph.D. Stein Institute for Research on Aging Sarah Banks, Ph.D. Alzheimer in Women Emily Lukacz, M.D.,M.A.S. Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (PLUS) Research Consortium and Pelvic Floor Disorders Network (PFDN) Series: "Motherhood Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40668]

Menstruation is the cyclical shedding of the endometrium triggered by falling progesterone levels. Menstruation is a rare trait found in less than 2% of mammals and likely evolved independently at least 4 times. Why do some mammals menstruate while most do not? The leading hypothesis is that menstruation occurs as a nonadaptive consequence of spontaneous decidualization of the endometrium, which evolved to increase biosensoring of embryo quality. While the trait of spontaneous decidualization (and as a byproduct, menstruation) was likely shaped by natural selection, menstruation also disposes women to conditions such as endometriosis, pre-menstrual syndrome, and bleeding disorders, especially in the contemporary context. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40693]

William Lowry, Ph.D., discusses manipulating metabolic pathways in hair follicle stem cells to inhibit tumorigenesis. By blocking glycolysis and glutamine lysis simultaneously, they observed tumor regression, highlighting the complex interplay between metabolism and cancer. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39256]

Experts highlight innovative research and clinical advances in fertility and infertility. Speakers share new ways to improve IVF outcomes using liquid biopsy and RNA analysis, aiming to predict embryo quality without invasive tests. They also explore how imaging technologies can better detect and monitor reproductive cancers, helping tailor treatments for conditions like ovarian and cervical cancer. Throughout, there's a focus on addressing health disparities, improving care for all genders, and using big data and AI to personalize reproductive health solutions. Antoni Duleba, M.D. Clinical Landscape and OGRS Opportunities Rebecca Rakow Penner, M.D.,Ph.D. Imaging in Gynecologic Disorders Jennifer Anger, M.D.,M.P.H. Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome in Reproductive Age Women Sheng Zhong, Ph.D. Silverseq and Liquid Biopsy Series: "Motherhood Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40667]

Pressures of life on Earth experienced by our ancestors – as multicellular beings, as hosts to parasites, and as home to microbes – shaped the evolved structure and function of our immune systems.  Some of the traits favored by natural selection have conferred resistance against infections while opening vulnerabilities to autoimmune diseases.  I will illustrate why analysis of the deep-time origins of mammalian immune systems reveals general principles of optimal defense and helps to explain why hosts are so profoundly variable in their susceptibility to infectious and inflammatory diseases. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40692]

Curious about the secret to staying young? Rob Signer shares insights into how our bodies age, focusing on the role of stem cells and a critical protein called HSF1 that helps them cope with stress. Signer explores the delicate balance of keeping these cells healthy without increasing cancer risk and highlighted some promising progress in enhancing the cells' ability to manage waste. Series: "Excerpts" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40775]

Cancer is normal development spun out of control. It is the great plasticity and power of development, without the overarching controls that guide normal development toward an integrated adult form. Instead, whenever a newly developed kind of tissue acquires the ability to survive, grow, and resist control, there is nothing to stop it. That may be why normal adult cells are often terminally differentiated into a restricted cellular program. And it may be why wound healing, which releases the restricted cellular program and powerfully plastic tissue remodeling, is so tightly regulated and, when dysregulated, so often associates with cancer. With regard to evolutionary history, humans develop differently from their ape ancestors, and their lifestyle causes them to suffer different kinds of tissue damage. Those differences in development and wound healing likely led to new aspects of cancer disease over human history. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40691]

The human body has traits that evolved at different times, from 1.5 billion to 2 million years ago, each bringing health benefits and risks. Multicellularity enabled organs and cancer. The immune system defends us but can cause inflammation. Breastfeeding supports infant health but relates to breast cancer risk. Menstruation and invasive placentas improved reproduction but led to pain and cancer risks. Human-specific traits like bipedalism and aging brought new issues like back pain and childbirth problems. Hair loss and sweat glands helped us stay cool but increased skin cancer risk. Our hunter-gatherer past shaped our microbiome and health, but also made us prone to modern diseases from lifestyle changes. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40701]

Fadel Zeidan, Ph.D., discusses the science of mindfulness and how meditation can change the brain. He explains what happens in the brain during stress, how mindfulness helps us become more self-aware, and why it's important to pay attention on purpose. Zeidan shares easy ways to bring mindfulness into daily life, even in small moments. The video includes guided meditations led by Zeidan. Viewers can follow along as he teaches simple breathing techniques and short practices designed to build focus and calm the nervous system. Whether you're new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, this program offers useful tools backed by science. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40267]

Yaron Singer, Vice President of AI and Security at Cisco, co-founded a company specializing in artificial intelligence solutions, which was acquired by Cisco in 2024. They developed a firewall for artificial intelligence, a tool designed to protect AI from making critical mistakes. No matter how sophisticated AI is, errors can still happen, and these errors can have far-reaching consequences. The product is designed to detect and fix such mistakes. This technology was developed long before ChatGPT and its competitors burst onto the scene, making it the hottest industry in tech investment. Join Singer as he sits down with UC San Diego professor Mikhail Belkin to discuss his work and the continued effort to make artificial intelligence secure. Series: "Data Science Channel" [Science] [Show ID: 40265]

Metamaterials are special structures made of tiny components that give them unique electromagnetic properties not found in nature. One key feature is a negative refractive index, which enables technologies like "superlenses" for ultra-detailed imaging and "invisibility cloaks." The concept began when Sir John Pendry theorized special rings (SRRs) that could manipulate electromagnetic waves. Later, Sheldon Schultz and David Smith proved this idea with real experiments. Since then, research on metamaterials has rapidly expanded, covering everything from microwaves to visible light. In this talk, Professors Pendry and Smith will share their experiences and discuss how metamaterials have shaped science and technology over the past 25 years. Series: "Kyoto Prize Symposium" [Science] [Show ID: 40534]

The 3rd Annual Global Astrobiotechnology Hub focuses on advancing the intersection of space exploration, biotechnology, and innovation. The program brings together scientists, researchers, and space professionals to discuss how space technologies can accelerate scientific breakthroughs, particularly in fields like personalized medicine and bioengineering. Key themes include the challenges of conducting real-time research in space, the need for specialized astronaut-scientists, and the potential of space for groundbreaking experiments, such as organoid growth and in-space manufacturing. Experts underscore the importance of public access to scientific data and highlight the role of new media in engaging the public with space research. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40389]

Scientists, leaders, and patients discuss the intersection of cutting-edge science and real-world impact. They explore the importance of patient perspectives in shaping medical advancements and how collaboration fuels groundbreaking research. Key scientific achievements in areas like regenerative medicine, cancer therapies, and space biology are highlighted. The group emphasizes the need for scientists to engage more with the public—through social media and media appearances—to help people understand and value the life-changing discoveries in science. Featuring: Catriona Jamieson, M.D., Ph.D. UC San Diego Sandra Dillon Patient Advocate Alexander Khalessi, M.D., M.B.A. UC San Diego Jana Stoudemire Celestial Strategy, LLC Alysson Muotri, Ph.D. UC San Diego Rebecca Moores Philanthropist and Patient Advocate Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40519]

A Parent's Guide to San Diego Schools is a valuable, research-driven resource that helps families navigate school choices with confidence. This year, the guide takes a deeper look at the powerful role Career Technical Education (CTE) plays in shaping student success beyond the classroom. In a discussion led by Morgan Appel of UC San Diego, Andrea Lopez-Villafaña and Jakob McWhinney of Voice of San Diego highlight how CTE programs provide early, hands-on learning that builds practical skills, boosts confidence, and creates direct pathways to meaningful careers. Taylor Dunne of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation adds that when CTE offerings are matched with up-to-date labor market data, students are not just learning—they're preparing for real opportunities in San Diego's evolving job market. The panel agrees that while the guide offers important data and comparisons, there's no substitute for visiting schools and seeing where students truly thrive. Series: "Career Channel" [Business] [Education] [Show ID: 40597]

Paul Hoffman is the 2024 Kyoto Prize Laureate in Basic Sciences. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Victoria, has conducted groundbreaking research in the “Snowball Earth” (global freezing) hypothesis and plate tectonics occurring in the first half of the Earth's 4.6-billion-year history. After earning his doctorate from Johns Hopkins University, Hoffman served the Geological Survey of his native Canada for 24 years followed by teaching at Harvard University and conducting related research in Sub-Saharan Africa. He has geologically demonstrated the occurrence of the postulated global freeze, so-called “Snowball Earth,” which drove the rapid diversification of animals in the Cambrian period approximately 520 million years ago. Series: "Kyoto Prize Symposium" [Science] [Show ID: 39991]

William Forsythe is the 2024 Kyoto Prize Laureate in Arts and Philosophy. He is a choreographer whose work has extended ballet to a dynamic contemporary art form. In 1984, he began a 20-year tenure as director of Ballet Frankfurt. After the closure of the Ballet Frankfurt in 2004, Forsythe established a new, more independent ensemble, The Forsythe Company, which he directed from 2005 to 2015. Between 2015 and 2021 he served on the University of Southern California's faculty, where he helped establish the Glorya Kaufman School of Dance. Forsythe has broken the boundaries of conventional ballet style, challenging traditional artistic frameworks and developing improvisation techniques. His projects include installations and films presented in numerous museums, as well as dance documentation and education. Series: "Kyoto Prize Symposium" [Arts and Music] [Show ID: 39992]

Sir John Pendry is the 2024 Kyoto Prize Laureate in Advanced Technology. He serves as a professor of Theoretical Solid State Physics at Imperial College London. After earning his Ph.D. at University of Cambridge, Pendry's initial research concerned a low-energy electron diffraction theory for examining and measuring the surface of materials for practical purposes. He theoretically demonstrated that materials with electromagnetic properties not found in nature, such as negative-refractive-index materials (metamaterials), can be created by designing microstructures smaller than the wavelength of the target electromagnetic waves. This groundwork helped create innovative materials such as “superlenses” with subwavelength resolution and “invisibility cloaks.” Series: "Kyoto Prize Symposium" [Science] [Show ID: 39990]

The meteorology that causes atmospheric rivers is complex, but scientists at the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) are working to help better predict them and understand what they mean for rainfall and snowfall across the state. Join CW3E Deputy Director Julie Kalansky to learn the causes and consequences of these rivers in the sky. Series: "Jeffrey B. Graham Perspectives on Ocean Science Lecture Series" [Science] [Show ID: 40658]

Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern, but innovative approaches and community-based research are transforming prevention efforts, particularly immigrant communities. With over 600,000 new cases diagnosed annually, early detection and prevention strategies are crucial. However, accessibility and awareness gaps persist in immigrant communities due to language barriers, cultural stigma, and limited healthcare access. Community-based research plays a pivotal role in bridging these gaps. In engaging local populations through culturally sensitive outreach ensures that prevention strategies are accepted and effective. University of Miami Chief Health Equity Officer, Dr. Erin Kobetz, discusses how integrating cutting-edge technology with community engagement, moves us closer to reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates, fostering a healthier future for immigrant populations. Series: "Exploring Ethics" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40464]

How can you make choices today that could help you live longer and feel better? Gordon Saxe, M.D., Ph.D., explores the ways to slow the aging process and live a healthier life. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40601]

“When anchors fail, people die.” This line has many meanings for author, motivational speaker and expert mountain climber Manley Feinberg. In this Osher Author Talk interview, Feinberg describes a harrowing climb of Yosemite's El Capitan in 2022, where he and his son saved the life of their companion while suspended on the face of the mountain. He incorporates his experience climbing mountains into his books and presentations to help people reach their fullest potential while supporting those around them. The interview is hosted by Henry DeVries as part of UC San Diego's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Series: "Osher UC San Diego Distinguished Lecture Series" [Humanities] [Show ID: 40432]

Jesmyn Ward has been hailed as the standout writer of her generation, proving her “fearless and toughly lyrical” voice in novels, memoir, and nonfiction. She's been called “the new Toni Morrison.” Ward is a MacArthur “Genius Grant” recipient and in 2017, she became the first woman and the first person of color to win two National Book Awards for Fiction—joining the ranks of William Faulkner, Saul Bellow, John Cheever, Philip Roth, and John Updike. Her books include "Let Us Descend," "Sing, Unburied, Sing," "Salvage the Bones," and "Navigate Your Stars." The professor of creative writing at Tulane University joins host Dean Nelson for this evocative conversation as part of the 30th anniversary of the Writer's Symposium by the Sea at Point Loma Nazarene University. Series: "Writer's Symposium By The Sea" [Humanities] [Show ID: 40217]

John A. Pérez, Regent Emeritus of the University of California, sits down with Robert Williams, Ph.D., CEO and Finci-Viterbi Executive Director of the USC Shoah Foundation, for a critical conversation about the rise of antisemitism on college campuses. They explore how history shapes present-day challenges, the dangers of misinformation, and the role of higher education in confronting hate. Drawing on lessons from the Holocaust and other historical atrocities, they discuss the urgent need for courage and action to combat antisemitism. Series: "Education Channel" [Humanities] [Education] [Show ID: 40249]

Sandra Cisneros is a Latina American short-story writer and poet regarded as a key figure in Chicano literature. She is best known for her first novel, "The House on Mango Street," and her subsequent short story collection, "Woman Hollering Creek and Other Stories." Her work experiments with literary forms that investigate emerging subject positions, which Cisneros herself attributes to growing up in a context of cultural hybridity and economic inequality that endowed her with unique stories to tell. She is the recipient of a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship, a Ford Foundation Art of Change Fellowship, the USA Literary Award, and a MacArthur Foundation Fellowship, As part of the 30th anniversary of the Writer's Symposium by the Sea, Cisneros joins host Dean Nelson for this passionate conversation at Point Loma Nazarene University. Series: "Writer's Symposium By The Sea" [Humanities] [Show ID: 40218]

OpenAI researcher Adam Kalai sits down with UC San Diego professor Mikhail Belkin to discuss his work in machine learning, algorithmic fairness, and artificial intelligence. Kalai has contributed research in areas like fairness in AI models, word embeddings, and human-AI collaboration. He has worked at Microsoft Research and has published influential papers on bias in machine learning models. His work has helped shape discussions on ethical AI and the development of more equitable AI systems. Series: "Data Science Channel" [Science] [Show ID: 40264]

Human beings show a range of emotional attachment, affection, and infatuation often referred to as “love”. Love promotes long-lasting and secure relationships that involve nurturing and support. Biological mechanisms underlying such behavior involve ancient neuropeptides and their receptors in the brain. These systems are also involved in reproduction, ranging from mating and pair-bonding, to giving birth and lactation. They shape the earliest experiences of all mammals and their mothers. The concept of love and how we experience it are affected by culture and its diverse societal norms. This symposium will explore the evolutionary roots of human love, compare human love to corresponding emotions in other animals, consider human conditions that prevent the expression of such feelings, and examine the key role of love and affection for our development and daily lives.  Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40506]

Human fathers exhibit hormonal shifts in testosterone, prolactin, and oxytocin, enabling flexible responses to parenting. In species with costly paternal care, these shifts balance mating and parenting efforts, suggesting evolved neuroendocrine capacities that support fatherhood. Today, fathers collaborate with mothers worldwide, though their roles vary across cultures and family systems, much as they likely did evolutionarily. Using research from the Philippines, Congo-Brazzaville, and the U.S., alongside cross-cultural data, this talk examines how men's hormonal physiology adapts to parenthood and influences family behaviors and bonds within diverse ecological and cultural contexts. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40387]

Author, screenwriter, philanthropist, journalist and broadcaster Mitch Albom is an inspiration around the world. He is the author of numerous books of fiction and nonfiction, which have collectively sold more than 40 million copies in 48 languages worldwide. He has written eight number-one New York Times bestsellers — including "Tuesdays with Morrie," the bestselling memoir of all time. As part of the 30th anniversary of the Writer's Symposium by the Sea, Albom joins host Dean Nelson for this far-reaching conversation at Point Loma Nazarene University. Series: "Writer's Symposium By The Sea" [Humanities] [Show ID: 40219]

The titi and owl monkeys of South America live in socially-monogamous groups where the male and female establish a pair bond and share parental duties. Why do males of these species mate in a monogamous relationship presumably foregoing other reproductive opportunities? And why are titi and owl monkey males such good fathers, investing heavily in the care of offspring that they cannot be certain they sired? Relying on ecological, behavioral and genetic data collected during 28 years from wild populations in Argentina, Peru and Ecuador. This lecture will discuss the role of food distribution, mate guarding and infant care in the evolution of pair-bonds, monogamy and paternal care. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40382]

Anthony Lim, M.D., J.D., explores how small, intentional steps can lead to lasting behavioral change. Lim breaks down a simple, four-step framework to help people achieve their goals, whether it's improving health, forming better habits, or making positive life changes. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40602]

Explore the cutting-edge intersection of space travel, biology, and health. Experts dive into the effects of microgravity and space radiation on mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and liver regeneration, shedding light on the unique challenges astronauts face during long-term missions. The discussion also touches on metabolic health, highlighting the role of diet and new pharmaceutical treatments like GLP-1 agonists in addressing modern-day health concerns. With engaging insights on how space research can inform breakthroughs on Earth, this talk is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of human health and space exploration. Series: "MIND - Medicine Informing Novel Discoveries" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40388]

How can you make choices today that could help you live longer and feel better? Gordon Saxe, M.D., Ph.D. explores lifestyle choices, including diet, that can prevent, or slow, chronic diseases and improve overall health. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40600]

B Side Players is an American band formed in 1994. The band incorporates the sounds of Cuba, Jamaica, Mexico and Brazil with the funk, rock, jazz and hip-hop rhythms of their homeland. The band also drops a bit of Cumbia, gritty street Samba, Son Montuno and Jarocho into the mix. Described as War meets Lenny Kravitz by way of Ben Harper, the players have expanded their sound by playing with the likes of Harper, Ozomatli, The Wailers, James Brown, War and some of Cuba's best bands. They are signed to Jazz label Concord Music Group. Karlos "Solrak" Paez, the man behind the B-Side Players, grew up in a musical family. His father Ezequiel Paez is a trombone player and musical arranger who spent 17 years in Los Moonlights from Tijuana and 10 years in La Banda Del Recodo. Series: "Arts Channel " [Arts and Music] [Show ID: 40244]

Grandmothers play a key role as alloparents in human families. A leading hypothesis suggests that the inclusive fitness benefits of grandmaternal care selected for an extended female lifespan after reproduction, a unique trait among primates. Beyond lifespan extension, grandmothers may have biological adaptations for caregiving. Research from our lab shows grandmothers have lower DNA methylation of the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) compared to non-grandmothers, with lower methylation linked to stronger bonds with grandchildren. MRI scans reveal grandmothers have a lower brain age than controls, further reduced among those with higher engagement. These findings suggest grandmotherhood may enhance oxytocin signaling, promoting bonding and slowing brain aging. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40383]

Michael J. Corley, Ph.D., explores groundbreaking research on aging, the role of ancient viruses in our DNA, and the impact of the gut microbiome on longevity. Corley discusses how stress, diet, and exercise influence our genetic health, highlighting the complex interplay between environmental factors and our biological systems. The conversation also touches on individualized treatment strategies and the exciting potential of microbiome science in aging research. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40266]

This panel focuses on empowering neurodiverse individuals and their families through open discussions about communication and connection. Participants share personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of providing a voice to those who may struggle to express themselves. Key themes include support, understanding, and the journey toward fostering independence and confidence. The panelists encourage parents to prioritize their well-being while navigating the challenges of raising neurodiverse children, creating a community that values shared learning and growth. Through inspiration and insight, the panel explores practical strategies for enhancing communication and building meaningful relationships. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Education] [Show ID: 40212]

Close relationships help us shape both our other social interactions as well as our internal physiology. Do these close relationships, also known as pair bonds, look and function similarly in species as diverse as titi monkeys, prairie voles, seahorses, and humans? How do negative experiences such as loss factor into, and perhaps strengthen, our close relationships? And what do we mean by luminance? This lecture will explore these topics while also touching on the underlying neurobiology of pair bonding. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40380]

Ths discussion captures the experiences of parents raising neurodivergent children, emphasizing the importance of finding joy, fostering inclusion, and supporting sibling relationships. Parents share personal stories of resilience, from guiding neurotypical siblings to embrace their roles with love to advocating for inclusive school environments. They highlight the unexpected ways their children teach them patience and strength, as well as the deep sense of community that emerges when families, educators, and peers come together. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40214]

Dr. Theofanopoulou studies neural circuits behind sensory-motor behaviors like speech and dance, aiming to develop drug- and arts-based therapies for brain disorders. Her brain imaging research reveals overlapping motor cortex regions controlling muscles for speech and dance, while transcriptomic studies show upregulation of the oxytocin gene pathway in key areas like the motor cortex and brainstem. Using zebra finches, Bengalese finches, white-rumped munias, and humans, she demonstrates oxytocin's role in vocal production. She also developed genomic tools to apply these findings across vertebrates. Her future work explores oxytocin-based drugs and dance therapies to treat speech and motor deficits in brain disorders. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40384]

Humans are an intensely social species. We experience social interactions as rewarding from infancy, and the social cognitive skills that we develop in the context of our earliest interpersonal attachments are critical for our survival and personal well being. Lack of social connection is common in many psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. In some disorders, like autism spectrum disorder, social cognition and social interaction impairments are the defining, core feature. Yet, despite the importance of social functioning in humans, our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms that regulate social behavior is limited. This lecture will describe the roles of two neuropeptides, oxytocin and vasopressin, in the regulation of social behavior in animals, and how findings from this research are providing fundamental insights into human social disorders, with a particular focus on vasopressin and autism spectrum disorder. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40381]

Oxytocin is a peptide molecule with a multitude of physiological and behavioral functions. Based on its association with reproduction, including social bonding, sexual behavior, birth and maternal behavior, oxytocin also has been called “the love hormone.” This presentation will examine parallels between the healing power of oxytocin and love. As described here, many myths and gaps in knowledge remain concerning oxytocin and love. A few of these are described and we hypothesize that the potential benefits of both love and oxytocin may be better understood in light of interactions with more ancient systems, including the autonomic nervous system, vasopressin and the immune system. The shared functions of oxytocin, love and sociostasis have profound implications for health and longevity, including the prevention and treatment of excess inflammation and related disorders, especially those occurring in early life and during periods of chronic threat or disease. Series: "CARTA - Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny" [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 40379]