We might understand what causes an itch in theory: an insect bite, a healing wound, a poisonous plant. But, where does the urge come from?  And what's going on within our bodies to make us scratch? Luke explains the science and the latest research which might finally result in remedies for those suffering with issues like dermatitis or eczema.

150. The Science of Itch

Have you ever wondered why we laugh or if you can really die of a broken heart? Join Professor Luke O'Neill on ‘Show Me the Science’ as he tackles a different issue each week; from the serious to the silly, all explained through science. This Newstalk production will open the world of science to people of all ages. New episodes every Thursday. Show me the Science is with thanks to B Braun.

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Science

Utilizing our own immune systems to fight cancer has always been an interesting idea to scientists, and now there's serious progress being made in this filed that could see us developing personalized treatments for the disease.  Radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgeries are all useful treatments but a vaccine against the tumor could be much more effective without being as intrusive. Luke explains how they might make these vaccines and gives the latest update on the clinical trials going on.

166. The Science of Cancer Treatments

Between 1980 and 2009, the rate of twinning in the US increased by 76%, and this trend is seen across the world. Twins can be either fraternal where two eggs are fertilized at the same time, or identical where one fertilized egg splits in two. Both of these offer huge opportunities for scientists to learn about genetic traits and environmental impacts on development.  Luke explains what we've learned from twin studies and why they're so useful.

165. The Science of Twins

The Covid-19 pandemic may still be fresh in all our memories, but scientists are already looking ahead to the next big pandemic to allow us to prepare and get ahead of it. A flu virus seems to be the most likely cause and in particular there is concern around the H5N1 strand which has now jumped from birds to cattle, and even a few dairy farmers. Human to human transmission is the next big warning sign which is being closely monitored.  Luke explains what we learned during the last pandemic to prevent the spread of another virus and another global lockdown.

164. The Science of The Next Pandemic

We all have our favourite songs - The ones that remind us of childhood memories, give us a boost of energy or the ones we play to make us cry. But where did music come from and what makes us connect so strongly to it?  Luke answers these questions as well as explaining what makes some people so talented musically, and others more tone deaf.

163. The Science of Music

How can we increase our life expectancy? Do we have any control over it or is it all to do with our genetic makeup? A new study into microscopic worms has revealed how their genes allow them to enter a 'dauer' state of almost hibernation during times of limited food and in doing so expand their lifespan from 2 weeks to over 2 months. Luke explains how this works and how this finding could be useful for humans.

150. The Science of Itch

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