The Thought

Dr. Palmer explains what sleep is, its importance for both mental and physical health, and how to get a better night's sleep. 

What happens when viruses, like Herpes Simplex, infect neurons? What are the biological reasons why a virus would infect a neuron and how does infection alter neuronal function? Matt Taylor explains what is known on the subject, the innate immune response elicited, and the perplexing Superinfection Exclusion that occurs with neuroinvasion. Also discussed, the possible therapeutic uses for viruses in neuronal diseases and cancer.

Trish talks about the drastic changes to Native Food Systems that occurred with colonization and how those changes are a prominent cause for loss of culture and chronic disease. We also talk about the disproportionate prevalence of chronic diseases in Native American populations, the microbiome, and the unbelievable lack of research regarding indigenous populations. 

Prof D thinks about death every single day. This episode gives insight into how death influences our everyday lives and the mindset of the man obsessed with mortality. 

An in depth conversation regarding what it means to be a physician, the role of research in ultimately improving patient health, and genetic engineering. Undertoned by biology and pharmacology, this episode is filled with insight into medicine and its relationship to research. Thom Hughes is a professor of Molecular Biology, Biophysics, and Neuroscience as MSU. 

Dr. Mazer provides great insight into the visual cortex and the importance it holds regarding attention. He studies mid- and high level visual processing and the relationship between visual perception, eye movements, and neural circuits.  We cover selective attention, it's application in everyday life (i.e ADHD and Addiction) and influential classes and books for those looking for more inspiration. 

Steve Eiger is an associate professor at MSU and teaches Medical Ethics and Physiology. We discuss the importance of learning,  his colorful life path, and the nuances of teaching and making an impact on students. This episode was recorded for "The Thought et al.", a podcast showcasing the faculty and research of the Cell Biology and Neuroscience Dept. at Montana State University. 

Elizabeth covers the importance of being a leader in ways usually overlooked, the fine finesse of leading quietly. We touch upon the importance of resilience, seeing the values in other, and how collectively we can make a difference in the lives around us.  

Eli is an artist, creative mind, graphic designer and an amazing friend. He shares how art has provided a way for emotions to be translated into visual stimuli. We cover how depression can propel someone forward in life and how happiness is a state of mind.

Episode 7: Mikayla shares her story of moving to the Crow Agency from California, her passion for Community Health and education, and lessons of identity along the way. She shares the important role that guidance from her Granny played in her life and how we can all make the world a little better by being open to novel ideas.