The New York Times last week alleged that a high-profile scientist is in cahoots with the meat industry. Is there any truth to the allegation? Genetically engineered insulin was approved 40 years ago. What have we learned about drug regulation since then? Four gene therapies have received FDA approval so far. Will we see more of these novel medicines on the market in the coming years?

Join geneticist Kevin Folta and GLP contributor Cameron English on episode 194 of Science Facts and Fallacies as they break down these latest news stories:

* Viewpoint: NY Times collaborates with Greenpeace in front page ‘hit piece’ targeting professor working to reduce the sustainability footprint of animal agriculture. Here’s his response

Repeating recent history, the New York Times last week attacked a widely respected scientist for allegedly taking money from corporations to defend their products. "He’s an Outspoken Defender of Meat. Industry Funds His Research, Files Show," the paper wrote about UC Davis air-quality specialist Dr. Frank Mitloehner. The problem? Nearly everything in the story was completely false.

* Viewpoint: Human insulin saga: Anomalous, successful 40-year history of the first genetically-modified medicine underscores how regulators can scuttle innovation

Insulin produced from genetically engineered microbes hit the market roughly four decades ago. It greatly expanded access to the hormone and earned regulatory approval in a record-breaking five months, instead of the usual 30 months. According to the FDA scientist who oversaw the approval of this novel drug, known commercially as "Humulin," the story illustrates the power of biotechnology to save lives—and how unnecessary regulation can stifle innovation.

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