The Omicron Variant with Neil deGrasse Tyson and Regeneron President, George Yancopoulos

What is the Omicron Variant? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Chuck Nice discuss the emergence of the new Omicron Variant of COVID-19 with biomedical scientist and president of Regeneron, George Yancopoulos.
How do we create antibodies for infectious diseases? We explore ebola, the Will Smith movie I Am Legend, and special rats with human immune systems! Find out how the immune system makes antibodies and how people can become resistant to a disease. What is “viral load”? What’s the difference between making vaccines and making antibody treatment? We take a deep dive into the science at the front lines of the pandemic.
We break down how vaccines work and what monoclonal antibodies are. What’s the difference between mutations of Covid and mutations of the flu? Will we be getting a Covid shot every year? How do we help immunocompromised people who can’t get vaccinated? What does immunocompromised actually mean for their immune system? How does a virus mutate anyway?
What goes behind the naming of the new variants? We take some hard-hitting patron questions like: How is Regeneron working to treat cytokine storms that seem to cause clotting in youth populations? What even is a cytokine? Learn about how our immune systems work to save us, but also how they can put us in danger, too. How do you get medical info out onto the front lines? Should we be worried about every mutation? Would too many false alarms make people ignore a real threat? How do you prevent panic? Is there a glimmer of hope in this new variant? We discuss how it is possible that a new variant could outcompete a current strain and make an overall less deadly version of Covid. Wouldn’t that be nice? All that, plus, Chuck offers some new pandemic-themed video game ideas to pass the time with.
Thanks to our Patrons Vincent Krohn, Eu, Valeritte (Chuck, just call me Val), Austin McCauley, Avneesh Joshi, Timothy Lew, and Nikki Amberg for supporting us this week.
NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.
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About StarTalk:
Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up!
#StarTalk #NeildeGrasseTyson
0:00 - Introduction
2:39 - Regeneron's mice with human immune-systems
7:48 - A natural immunity to HIV?
11:16 - What is viral load?
12:45 - Difference between vaccines and monoclonal antibodies
25:25 - The value of monoclonal antibodies for the immunocompromised
27:17 - What is a passive vaccine?
28:41 - What's different about Omicron?
35:11 - Should we get a COVID vaccine every year?
42:05 - Beginning of Patreon Q&A
42:17 - What are Cytokine Traps and will we use them?
45:28 - The challenge of communicating medical information
48:35 - Do we risk 'calling wolf' with coverage of new variants?
51:30 - Is COVID becoming more like the flu?

[@McVegas2k]

Sorry but that Omicron Futurama joke that Chuck made at the beginning was hilarious and I refuse to allow it go unnoticed 😂😂

[@ericsinger2692]

Somebody correct Neil about its origin

[@IntricateUniverse25]

When Neil said Star Treck I was a bit confised, but then again I’ve never seen that show so I just assumed it was part of it. I had only heard it on Futurama!

[@durragas4671]

@@IntricateUniverse25 I've watched Star Trek a lot and I've never heard it mentioned there. But my memory isn't the greatest.

[@andrewlindenfeld6222]

I am LURR from the planet Omicron Persei 8!!

[@OrderofAnima]

Yeah, never saw Star Trek. I assumed Omicron Persei-8 was in Star Trek that Futurama also used as a nod to other sci-fi; which they did often. 🤔🤷‍♂️

[@egar4767]

This gentleman and his co-founder saved my life. I was going down hill fast. One half hour into the one hour Regeneron Monoclonal Antibody Infusion I started feeling better. It was amazing. Thank you, George and Leonard

[@thegapitsempty]

stay put and keep looking up...

[@damianmlamb]

Pretty awesome! Now you can keep catching monster bass

[@Q_QQ_Q]

Where did you get it ?

[@egar4767]

@@Q_QQ_Q In an emergency in South Texas. It was prescribed by my doctor. I have various underlying issues.

[@Q_QQ_Q]

@@egar4767 for covid ?

[@bikkies]

This was so refreshing. I expected to hear corporate spiel, knocking the competition, jockeying for first place. What I actually heard was partnership, respect for the other players in this field (even though this is the world of big pharma where money talks). I heard that all the biotech companies have a role to play. This transparency and lack of competitiveness is not only welcome, but necessary. Thank you for bringing this conversation into the public space.

[@CarlWithACamera]

Regeneron, the only pharma stock I own. This guy and his company are a breed apart.

[@NativeIntelligenceCheckMyDJmix]

This interview session is so good in so many ways.....I don't watch the regular news for obvious reasons. This is only the second time I've found an interview from a scientist that actually explained some crucial information about viruses/mutations and antibodies or lack of them in a human. Great that I find what I need to hear for safety and sad that i have to dig for basic info until i happen upon something real and informative. Thanks so much for the super enjoyable watch and learning experience.

[@adamwarren8893]

For the last few weeks I’ve been 100% done with anything relating to COVID, but hearing intelligent, civil conversation about it that isn’t bloated and dramatised by the news is very refreshing.

[@BarryBollox.]

Word!

[@keredsilloc4095]

Last few weeks? I've been done with it for the last year

[@deathtrapbynapalm7861]

Recycled garbage is better than regular garbage.

[@downrivergrit794]

@@keredsilloc4095 Same

[@bannedvids]

@@keredsilloc4095 bam 100%👍👍

[@anthonycraig274]

Its great when someone doesn’t dumb down their explanation, just use analogies to get their point across. This has to be the most informative information about viruses I have listen to this year.

[@mangosgottatango3573]

Yeah!

[@GP-qb9hi]

You think this wasn't dumbed down. That's cute.

[@anthonycraig274]

@@GP-qb9hiSo which part of this need more complexity?

[@TheDrequan123]

That’s the definition of dumbing it down

[@markstoned132]

Ill just leave this here ourtube.co.uk/watch/anna-de-buisseret-kate-shemirani-and-fiona-rose-diamond-give-update-in-brighton_MU637whD9uEaZUO.html?lang=English v

[@hopesdaughter5947]

Wow, what a difference 4 weeks makes. Amazing to hear them speak about a future we are somewhat experiencing now. This was great. 🙂

[@trishog3106]

This is how information should be shared! Science based without the fluff or cohesion!! This has really enlightened me even more! Thank you guys

[@danm700]

Thanks for this episode Dr Tyson. This is perhaps the best episode I’ve watched. Especially thanks to your guest Dr Yancopoulos. Thank you so much.

[@peterkrywiak5772]

This was the best discussion about disease and immunity in general. George is a very good speaker on this subject.

[@chrisbova9686]

It's important to know, that although you may feel very ill, and there is a scary pandemic, you should never go to the hospital unless you want to die.

[@johnkoebel3135]

GARBAGE

[@isvuswright4882]

This is so good! George does an excellent job of simply explaining something at a deeper level than the general facts that the WHO is giving us. Simple bullet points are the most effective way to disseminate knowledge on such a wide scale, but you can only put so much into a bullet point. This is perfect for people without prior knowledge who still want to know a little more.

[@ahmedelselly2553]

without comparing, the WHO doing it's job, and of course it's not enough we all should work together

[@kimmichelangenhovenlagorce306]

deeper level? I agree yes....the flu didnt have the same power as covid did to shut down societies and the globe...?? no, in fact neither of them have that power do they? I mean correct me if i am wrong but was it not men in government and health organisations and scientists and billionaires and ceo's who shut down the world and humanity as we knew it?

[@jozeepowl9828]

@@kimmichelangenhovenlagorce306 The reaction to it is equivalent with reaction to the risk of being exposed to serious nuclear radiation- where people could die within the hour. Wearing suits & helmets- while people commuting by public transportation are told to wear masks if they are standing up - but are welcome to take the masks off if they are sitting down. (Covid-restrictions in July) . It makes NO sense. Any doctors with their sanity intact- would consider the restrictions when using public - supposed to protect us from catching an AIRBORNE virus ~a complete joke. All the time gut feeling's been that there is something wrong- definitely strange about the navigation of this pandemic. And it is as if the authorities are playing "Simon says" with our people making most Danes frustrated . Its a highly dangerous power they've got going worldwide- bossing people around as if they have the ultimate power to do so. Conspiracy or not. Something is wrong. I just can't prove it. Have not been tested because they also take your DNA . In Denmark - by law - you need a warrant to do so without your consent. So I just wont be forced to give my DNA - because 1. Its illegal . 2. It costs a fortune- so why now? 3. I see no medical relevance for it concerning a virus. 4. Human Rights are vital for a healthy survival of mankind . Dictatorship has always led to ruination of any human societies. If they asked me to freely contribute DNA telling me what it's for- respecting my right to say no, it would be no problem. Denmark has been functioning as a solid democracy since the Vikings. It is a VERY alarming symptom- we suddenly experience being dictated & bossed around- restrictions changing constantly- much of it , like masks on or off while standing or sitting in public transportation ~ then when you see a new mutation ~ another vaccine needed.. Just k n o w something is wrong . Hardest part in this old country is to keep obeying the rules because its getting really hard to take it seriously. Number of people dying in DK has never been this low. However. The number of people dying from commiting suicide has rocketed. It's not about avoiding sickness and death ~ it's a part of Nature. Suicide isn't. We have a right to LIVE while we are here. Thinking authorities can control the course of nature this vigorously worldwide is madness - and a threat to all life on this planet- that might find a way to get RID of our species. Nature has this programming already. Point. Yes to sensible behaviour around an epidemic. No to dictatorship & ignorance. We are as species not entitled to exist on Earth. So step 1 has got to be World Peace- and helping to heal our mental health our world and chance to visit an incredible Planet. This one. 🌍💫

[@bbaucom2]

@@jozeepowl9828 I'm guessing you are ADHD.

[@MrDasfried]

@@jozeepowl9828 dude you leave your DNA everywhere you go If your not in fullbody hazsuit... Whats all that giberisch your uttering?

[@bmichaelr1]

This was truly a most enlightening interview/conversation. I would recommend its viewing to many of my friends. I wish this could be shown on popular networks like CNN and NBC ...It would go a very long way.

[@rokko_hates_japan]

He's making untold profits from this. though I don't think he's as evil as those bandits at pfizer, moderna, j&j (look up their history of lawsuits and crooked behavoir) .. but he is basically using similar fear tactics as your precious lying cnn and nbc. you honestly think you can trust them? lol

[@BinaHejazi]

Truely one of the best episodes ever on Star Talk, magnificent thanks Neil and Chuck!!

[@ruellerz]

I've been oversaturated with COVID news but this was palatable. Thanks for a great talk George!

[@a.a.sanders6448]

Mr Neil. Question. There was alot of talk about the immuno-compromised. And in connection to them, the idea if repeated immunizations going forward. Wouldn't that only refer to a small demographic? Because as I understand it, most people's passive and active immune systems are working...the only time i know of when someone can be truly imuno-compromised is if one has A.I.D.S.! To my ears it seems as if, this is a convoluted way of convincing people to rely upon an artificial immune system. 🤔 correct me if I'm wrong. Because if that's what the man was saying, I wouldn't be okay with that.

[@24yrukdesigner]

There is a huge contradiction by George however George "This is why everyone gets through covid with their natural immune system" Also George "This is why Vaccines are good" Vaccines are NOT natural immune systems, and whilst I'm not as experienced as George on that specifically, I would definitely challenge him on that because I am certain the vaccines whilst in the past have been useful, in this case are complete nonsense.

[@tommycollier9172]

Thank you so much Neil for bringing George onto your program it has put my mind at ease and as always I feel so much smarter after watching Star Talk

[@dshire71]

Thank you so much for this episode. Would love to see updates as more is learned and can be discussed like this.

[@NoloCuban]

Thank You! More of this please, what a humbling experience to watch this conversation!

[@kennyhardy1884]

Congratulations to all involved for the most informative and enlightening discussion on covid since the pandemic started! Everything was absolutely fascinating and so much easier to understand than anything I have seen before this! Please do try to schedule at least a bi-monthly if not monthly update interview, as I'm sure Millions like myself would love, appreciate and fully embrace each update as this was more like a classroom session of knowledge that was a true pleasure to absorb! Please do.... if at all possible, make this an ongoing series with this panel!... as this was simply brillant and the fact it was not a video loaded with fear but a calm relaxed understanding of how everything works, and the ongoing research and efforts being presented to educate calmly rather than to induce panic!

[@simplyme922]

Love Neil's humor. How can you not love science.

[@level_earth_observer1986]

There is nothing science about this. Neil is a big time shill

[@johnkoebel3135]

OMG HES A HUGE DECEIVER ALSO IN HIS BALL SPINNINGH GLOBE LIES IS WHAT HE DOES

[@davidgadd57]

Neil Tyson is the Jussie Smollett of science. Just another bad actor and deceiver.

[@art_apexart_apex3440]

Wow the hate is real. Wouldn't be surprised if there was a racial motivate behind some of these comments

[@FlaviusAspra]

Loved the science level and the format! This kind of talks give me faith in humanity again. Absolutely amazing!

[@raxatzelleitzelarhernandez9698]

I ve never lost faith.... But then again, although i love meaningless stuff too.... I don t get it yet.... Why we us humans we don t look more for philosophy, science, arts... Those things that give us that energy to go in..... In my times 50 years ago it was a trip to the library.... And a lot of reading... and empirical success ,mistake trials...

[@hectornadal715]

THIS IS THE WAY FAUZHEET SHOULD TALK.

[@samluca1244]

Your name sounds like a medical prescription. You're believable with that😊

[@f-godz3342]

I feel I've just learned more about covid in the last hour than the previous 18 months.

[@mattphillips1910]

That's because the government lies to you 100% of the time, about 100% of the topics they discuss. Stick with that rule and you'll do better in life.

[@mnomadvfx]

@@mattphillips1910 Only in the way that schools lie to early schoolchildren about the sciences. Some people are just not prepared to take in information like this - or even want to.

[@christopherlane563]

Because it took thar long to figure out how to link the real cure with the fake one. Tysons bought out now

[@danceswithcritters]

f-godz Who's fault is that . Were you living under a rock .

[@allegorx58]

Where tf have you been

[@gordonquigg9389]

I'm so glad that George Y, put forth such an amazing educational amount of truthful information to inform the public. I have never seen this much intelligence on the corona virus variants as how george explains it.

[@michellestaples5476]

Learned so much. thank you for posting.

[@-_Nuke_-]

wow thats such an importand and intresting talk, thank you Star Talk

[@SandeepSingh-we7qb]

So impotand I cry

[@aaronalienseeker801]

Futurama reference, I made it too ever since I heard it hahaha

[@BaronVonBlair]

*Persei 8*

[@RojanskiTV]

Futurama ftw!

[@colesrk]

Chuck didn't even want to waste time correcting him lol

[@Psyborgasm]

Its the first thing that popped up in my head when I heard omicron

[@aaronalienseeker801]

@@Psyborgasm omg your subbed to prof my G 👊😎

[@ber334]

I love this! These three guys together is a good combination and it will make people interested in learning about this. It's so important that we know everything about this virus all the details and I'm upset with the media and the government for not giving the citizens more respect and should realize that most of us can understand the details of this virus and knowing the details will prompt us to make wiser decisions when it comes to our daily activities

[@J.Mulleno]

Great comments! The more knowledge helps make better decisions. Thanks! 🖖

[@gregorywalker4997]

incredibly good presentation by all involved, thank you!

[@DiegoMenta]

This is, by far, the best informational video on covid that I saw. George's ability to explain himself is remarkable. Thank you all!

[@lemarcusjackson7988]

Watch the most recent Rogan podcast, amazing information. Nothing better than getting information from doctors who actually deal with real data.

[@SpotterVideo]

COVID-19 “Science” Questions ? How did computer geek Bill Gates become the world health czar, who decided every person on the planet must be “vaccinated” and be given a unique identification number? Did Dr. Anthony Fauci write an article printed in the Washington Post during 2011 which advocated for “Gain-of-Function” research in viruses? Did Fauci say it was a risk worth taking? Did Dr. Ralph Baric at UNC Chapel Hill perform “Gain-of-Function” research on Corona viruses? Why did N.C. Governor Roy Cooper tell pharmacists not to fill prescriptions for Hydroxychloroquine, even though it was prescribed by medical doctors in that state? Did this order lead to any deaths? If there was no “vaccine” for the 1918 Spanish Influenza virus, how did that pandemic end? Did a recent Israeli study conclude natural immunity produced by recovery from a COVID-19 infection is thirteen times better than that produced by the shots now being promoted in the U.S. ? Are less than 1% of the “vaccine” injuries being recorded by the VAERS system? Are many of those with injuries being ignored? If Dr. Anthony Fauci is the official source of “Science” which is not to be questioned, why did he change his story about the need to wear masks? How much of the Bill of Rights found in the U.S. Constitution has been ignored during the last two years? The answers to many of these questions are found in Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s new book “The Real Anthony Fauci, [Bill Gates, Big Pharma, and the Global War on Democracy and Public Heath]

[@mark2073]

@@SpotterVideo I swear if authorities told people that if they get a Jimi Hendrix tattoo on their shoulder, then they'd be protected, half the people would believe it. And then blame the tattoo-less ones for the fact that the tattooed ones aren't actually protected.

[@Millisach1]

Wow.. i really enjoyed this and learned alot. Thank you

[@mariocerame]

This dude has made more sense than anyone else I have heard talk about or read write about the disease.

[@kewakl8891]

@21:00 Lenny and George. How appropriate. Thanks Chuck!

[@WestExplainsBest]

Imagine going to school with Neil deGrasse Tyson, and then he isnt even the smartest guy in the class??? This guy George must be top tier genius!!!

[@ashnakamura2411]

Being the smartest in guy in the class doesn't necessarily make you smarter. Some people can learn to pass exams without fully grasping everything, and vice versa.

[@caseydorn3309]

@@ashnakamura2411 You're right. However in my experience usually you need both, in terms of being maximally intelligent. Everyone in college I knew that was professor bound easily got 100s on every exam, but ALSO knew every concept inside and out. Some kids got 100s but didn't know how to explain concepts. Others could explain concepts but tested poorly. Both could be considered "smart", but the true geniuses are aces of both. Doesn't mean you cannot be financially successful or invent something if you're a bad test taker. But being a genius typically means just that. You're gifted. Tests are stressful, but they measure your understanding of concepts. Some tests do a bad job of that. But if you're smart enough and know the material well enough, you'll still ace the test.

[@abeautifuldayful]

@@caseydorn3309 Not necessarily, though I would agree being smart and knowing material are essential to acing most tests given at higher levels in education. Don't forget that some people may still may need to get over poor habits and scheduling such as some basic sleep situations before testing or grow out of emotional or psychological issues to have that kind of eventual success, sometimes with the patient help of time or professional assistance. Also, it used to be thought that IQ cannot be improved, but that is false. Also, cultural background can also be overcome by learning another, sometimes through immersion into it and with time, to suit biased testing. People should never give up if once struggling to get good grades. They may still be smart and knowledgable but finally figure out how to take tests with more confidence to ace them later and still pursue whatever dreams they wish to follow. I know because it happened to me.

[@davideric7519]

I just want him to teach me some wrestling stuff Physics ain’t going to work with me

[@davideric7519]

@@ashnakamura2411 Tyson is not one of those guys

[@alinak.5227]

This was one of the absolute best episodes of the show. Great, informative interview, lots of facts with just the right amount of laughs. Thank you, all the 3 wise men! And Dr. Chuckles btw, is an awesome honorary degree👍!

[@MowSow]

What a brilliant conversation with some of the greatest minds in science! As a scientist, a biochemist and a pharmacist. I couldn’t have explained it better! This is the kind of people, as well as Dr Z, we want to see in main stream media explaining things to people, and we want KZbin and other social media outlets to work harder on BANNING and REMOVING FAKE information and conspiracy nut jobs.

[@anthonycraig274]

I agree but I realised looking at the comments, I live in a bubble. Unfortunately, this information doesn’t reach the ear that needs it most.

[@igortesic9514]

18mins to 18: 30 secs.

[@buckbenelli8]

Basic stuff, unfortunately most Americans never learned science, math, biology etc. They shut down when you try to explain immunology, virology or infectious disease. I have lost all empathy for the covidiots we are surrounded with.

[@pietskiet8763]

M. Serry.. Its amazing that the USA is leading everyone with corona deaths when they are the leading science on this? India Japan Indonesia Bangladesh Qatar all using ivermectin has less corona than Germany... Make me wonder about our science? It just doesn't make any sense... Sorry!

[@prestige8161]

Simple Question: If Every attempt of scientists to transfer so-called v!ral illnesses from sick people to healthy people has completely Failed, and if scientists have never once been able to find or even see these "v ! r uses" in someone's bodily fluid, then on what basis do they have any Real Evidence to validate what they claim?

[@carolmclean8535]

Fantastic video. Loved the breakdown. Thank you

[@debwilson245]

This was an incredible stream - Thank you. This is the best presentation of real information of covid and the variants and how vaccines and treatments work. Very nice!

[@vosoft]

Brilliant episode. Clear explanations of fundamental concepts around basic immunology and monoclonal treatments. Your guest is a fantastic communicator and educator. Hats off you guys for doing this. Dublin listener. P.s. Chuck is great humourist, facilitator and asset to the program.

[@jorgegonzalez-larramendi5491]

yes very valuable the level of humanoid stoopidity "lately" is silencing clear explanation for the few critical thinkers around. neal and chuck should explain the recent Dem efforts in congress. (this comment might be a joke - fyi.. )

[@eugeniawright1882]

This is absolutely fascinating! Thank you so much for presenting this. I learned a great deal from this topic. Great work and the speaker is doing a great work in healing.

[@kristintheartist]

Do vaccines work?

[@cliftoncameron5632]

This conversation is an absolute gift. Thank you Neil, George, and Chuck.

[@nevil_97]

Amazing minds with educational intent on this show best thing on KZbin

[@Njkk500]

AMEN!

[@fernandogarajalde4066]

This is real science, and I love how Tyson brings in eloquent authorities to inform us on these topics.

[@Q_QQ_Q]

He's also his classmate.

[@a.j.infowars7582]

Wrong!

[@raukoring]

You call CEO of pharmaceutical company science? 🤣

[@jojorulez11]

@@raukoring What is he if not a scientist? He got better grades than Neil Tyson, started a company that is massively succesfull and even found a cure against Ebola. What is science to you?

[@johnduggan8398]

@@jojorulez11 science to me is above politics and billionaires , but I'm naive to think that money and political leeches don't affect science. The whole covid stuff is to bring in a new system of government and economics , like seriously it's all there on the world economic forum this billionaire and his buds go to

[@VGKDean]

I can not thank you enough. I’ve had so many questions that had no answers until now.

[@deirdrehelfferich8281]

Stumbled across this, had to subscribe immidiately!

[@ryanbaker7404]

Fabulous episode! So refreshing to hear a logical, scientific discussion free of all the political drama. There are some amazingly intelligent people out there, working behind the scenes, who are looking out for our collective species.

[@seetheanimal5867]

He is a entertainer who is a shrill for the communists HOW THE bleeep can u say not political and also scientific it’s political entertainment

[@christinelafromboise6731]

@@seetheanimal5867 🤣🤣 thank you for your ridiculous comment; I needed a laugh. Watch out that your tin foil hat doesn’t fall off, eh.

[@christinelafromboise6731]

@@seetheanimal5867 Btw, the word is shill, not shrill. Look up both words and see the difference.

[@ericscaillet2232]

Well spotted, our planet has no shortage of idiots , unfortunatly civilization demands that we keep them alive and cheat natural selection.

[@scottgrohs5940]

I don’t see how anyone with a functional brain doesn’t immediately go right to the root cause of this virus running rampant on our society- and it’s very highly political.

[@ryanwhite6797]

Glad I'm not the only one who's mind goes straight to "omicron Persei 8" from futurama 😂😂

[@patriciamattone5414]

I've been searching desperately for this type of pure scientific information on what is the latest approach in our arsenal of defense to fight the variants of Covid. However, I am writing from the future, Oct. 16, 2022, and am craving for more updated information. Thank you so much for this extremely enlightening lecture and Q & A session!!!! Neil deGrasse - your clarifying, summary statements also add greatly to our understanding. You guys work perfectly together!!

[@sidtube12]

Great job. Thank you so much for this.

[@dominiquemousseautremblay1534]

What a great astronomical talk... We needed that. Many thanks to the 3 of you.

[@smesh4190]

Viral talk*

[@Tiarka]

George is really dropping jewels

[@brerabbit4233]

brown jewels.

[@AmitJain-ur9xp]

Great insight on the evolution of virus..thanks George...very informative..thanks Neil and Chuck for organizing a session on this

[@Dgamemaster2007]

thank you so much for this...

[@mattheweilenberg5057]

I listened all the way through and deeply appreciated the expertise, wit and humility displayed by the towering heroes of the Class of 1976 at Bronx Science, George and Neil (and the humor displayed by their co-host, not Bx Sci Class of ‘76). George and Neil, keep doing your very important work!

[@MikeJamesMedia]

Thank you, Dr. Yancopoulus, Neil, and Chuck. As you said, this information needs to be understood and spread around as much as possible. (Less nonsense, more appropriate action!)

[@seedplanter7173]

But this...kzbin.info/www/bejne/enzGhIGofMtnmqc

[@truesimplicity]

I will replicate this episode to all in my contact circles... Thank you for your timely explainer, super realavent content🤯

[@revkenwiz]

Thank you for the information, peace & love

[@Darkflowerchyld718]

The thought of a cytokine storm blocker becoming a real option fills my heart with so much hope. Cytokine storm is horrific and has been around a lot longer than COVID. I watched my mom die from this 13 years ago. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.

[@darkstorminc]

Coronavirus in its different flavors (SARS/MERS) have been around for a long time they just never spread as much as cov19 has

[@ZenRyoku]

this is considered what is known as a "auto-immune" disease... is that correct? or is that something else all together?

[@brianw5116]

@@ZenRyoku it when your immune system over reacts. It floods the body with white blood shutting down organs, etc… It can happen to anyone.

[@ZenRyoku]

@@brianw5116 thanks. I was almost right. 😋 aren't there different types of auto immune disorders? or is it just one version with varying intensities?

[@athecheat]

@@darkstorminc If only the rest of the world had followed mitigation measures of the east Asian countries all along. Its been infuriating to watch this horror all unfold when it was preventable.

[@Maxjoker98]

Omicron Persei 8 is from Futurama. It's where they get the *good* herbs for the Professor and Hermes ;)

[@T0asty-]

They also use "human horn" as an aphrodisiac.

[@Hanna.Verarte]

Thank i couldnt remeber where did i know the name !

[@cristydb277]

Neilrrrr!

[@caseycividanes]

Don’t forget about mcbeel the lawyer

[@gabidouglas3813]

Yes!!

[@nycgirl6978]

Thank you for bringing this erudite, down to earth, funny explanation of what we are in right now and the transparency of George in saying what they don’t know yet but that they are continuing to find answers. Great questions as well. Humanity against the virus.

[@justing1810]

I learned something today. Thanks guys.

[@mingtoiisaac4623]

Enjoyed this talk greatly, and learned so much from Dr. George. Adore you Dr. Tyson ❤

[@michaelg6686]

This was one of the best episodes.It just broke down everything about the virus and treatments."Great Interview".

[@seetheanimal5867]

So ur one of the slo polks who idolizes this entertainer

[@michaelg6686]

@@seetheanimal5867 it’s not entertainment. It’s facts. Clear your head.

[@seetheanimal5867]

@@michaelg6686 he is a dullard and an entertainer… he spoke the leftist party lines were are anti science regarding Corona from the get go. Besides being just an entertainer he became a puppet for the political left (he enjoyed the virtue signaling almost as he enjoys appearing intelligent to people like u” What he says is not just irrelevant in this subject area he should say nothing. Look at the data and it’s easy to see patterns… I suppose for real dumb people he would seem smart… but again that makes him an entertainer for the masses like u.

[@ProProboscis]

We need for a man with this level of ingenuity a movie called "I am genius". Seriously now, I know his success was built on collaboration and teamwork and so on but this is not your regular super smart guest, I find him a notch above the others. If I had to pick among your episodes this one is for sure in the top 3

[@kimmanning4989]

That was extremely informative! Thank you!!!

[@hornadeth]

It's so nice to hear some real facts from a professional once in a while without the media hysteria all over the place! Thanks for this episode.

[@TrondBrgeKrokli]

Some times I just watch the StarTalk episodes just for the funny comments from Chuck! Thank you for all the wonderful topics you bring to us.

[@StarTalk]

We'll pass the compliment to Chuck. 😄

[@joshuasakhai6797]

Interesting POV. I honestly have the exact opposite experience. I come to watch startalk for the rigor and quality of conversation, not for the laughs. I find the jokes / funny comments distracting, not relieving. I think if the goal is to make the content more approachable for a non-scientific audience, it's Neil's job to do that as a moderator and that won't be solved with a couple of jokes here and there.

[@TrondBrgeKrokli]

@@joshuasakhai6797 Fair point. I can see that. I just think it sometimes makes it feel even more accessible with the humor sprinkled throughout the episodes, at least from my view. It still does not lessen the scientific value of the content, in my view. I do actually enjoy the factual content. :)

[@AKMcF]

Great talk, very enlightening and refreshing.

[@mariedalencourt3104]

Best video ever on educating the public ...👏🏽Thank you. 🙏🏽

[@i.t.y1140]

53:08 For anyone who played Plague inc, that's exactly the case. In the game if you evolve your virus to be too lethal, it kills the population way too fast for it to spread globally while a high lethality virus often alerts the population which develops cure way faster, resulting in you losing the game. You almost need to make sure your virus spreads very easily through every method possible while making people think its not a threatening disease, then while the time is ripe the virus evolve into a lethal machine, killing everyone infected. It's a cool game that was released back in 2012.

[@hunam1464]

One thing that doesn’t make sense in Plague, Inc is if your pathogen evolves a new ability, suddenly every single case now magically inherits that ability instead of having to reinfect everybody all over again. Then there’s Omicron, which suddenly seems to have done the mecha-combiner trick and added all the mutations of everything-but-Delta.

[@angusmctwangstick4079]

It's true that the game mechanics mutates the already existing virus too which is unrealistic but with COVID, if the next mutation was super deadly I think there would be enough deniers to allow it to spread because of the weaker variants that came first. The denial won't end until it actually happens to them. At that point it's going to be much more difficult to eradicate.

[@athecheat]

I've played it many years, and the OG browser game it was based on, I feel Plague, Inc should be a game that's required in middle school health classes, young people need to learn the basics of disease spread. It has a new xpac since Covid that is about spread of misinformation. That would be an amazing learning tool for middle schoolers as well.

[@sethmcsnotter7872]

I loved that game !

[@originalandrewmark]

@@angusmctwangstick4079Luckily research has shown that in the scenario we're are in with covid, the virus always mutates DOWNWARD just like Omicron

[@NotTheSameAsIWas]

This is a fantastic discussion! Thank you for making difficult subjects easier to understand! Also, the virus shooter game is a really great idea!

[@JoseDJGETDOWNBizcarrondo]

This was probably the best informative video on this subject I've ever watched!!!

[@spreston71]

Absolutely great content,,, i appreciate this post,

[@thomahammer9581]

This is one of the best explanation I have ever heard. It is important to use everyday examples to explain complex concepts to neophytes.

[@Mark_Ocain]

George was very interesting...thanks for having him on your show! Neil, also, please invite Prof. Vincent Racaniello over at Columbia on your show for more on this topic...he's a great explainer too.

[@kenking7260]

A fantastic episode of StarTalk. Keep up the great work gentlemen!

[@jessebarrera159]

Awesome information, thank you for this scientific work and knowledge.

[@divebobber]

It would be wonderful if they also talked about what natural immunity does with regard to mutations or potential mutations.

[@bacawaka2813]

It also would be nice to hear if vaccines can cause mutation. In same principle as the need to limit the use of antibiotics because bactiria can adapt to them and eventually creating antibiotic resistant super bugs.

[@dray7276]

@@bacawaka2813 I doubt you would ever hear it. They will discuss it but it becomes misinformation for youtube when you discus things thats on that list. Censoring scientist.

[@KilonovaGolf]

@bacawaka was thinking the same thing… It would be crazy if it ended up being that vaccines we’re putting people with natural immunity in greater danger

[@prestige8161]

Natural immunity is a misnomer, given what it's based on and how it's defined. As a biomedical engineer that's been studying this type of material for nearly 20 years and recognizes the blatant flaws in virology; One of the questions I get asked a lot is "what proof or process would you regard as being valid in confirming (or otherwise) the existence of v ! r uses" (a.k.a. mythical creatures)? Basically scientists would just need to adhere to the Scientific Method, but that's apparently too much to ask. To hold any validity, scientists would need to actually Isolate & Purify out whatever particles they hypothesize could be v! r uses from a sick person, and then perform proper scientific experiments with them in order to prove that hypothesis true (or not). Ironically, the isolation method I'm about to describe is even written in microbiology text books and universally recognized as the Gold Standard of isolation. Yet virologists never do it: ISOLATION & PURIFICATION They should be taking fluid samples from a diseased person and then filtering through "viral sized" particles to bulk remove larger things from the sample. Then follow that up with density gradient centrifugation; which allows objects in a centrifuge tube to be separated by their density. That process would create separated "bands” (objects of different density) around the centrifuge tube. The suspected v! r us particles (if they existed) could then be extracted from one of those bands - thereby Isolated & Purified from everything else. Just Step-1. CONFIRMATION AND CHARACTERIZATION The suspected particles should be visualized under a microscope to see what they look like and Ensure everything under the scope are the same type of particles. Those objects should be mapped and characterized for their physical structure, size, and genetic makeup. Once scientists have ensured they've captured those unique particles only, they would then need to determine if they are in fact real life v ! r uses. EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES They'd need to use those particles in properly conducted experiments to see if they cause the original disease; using animal/plant/human hosts as test subjects, depending on the hypothesis. They would also need to run at least one equivalent negative control experiment (i.e. a control group) in parallel for comparison. If the hosts that were exposed to the particles become ill with the original disease and the otherwise equally treated control group does not, that would be suggestive of the particles being the cause. However, the basic idea of a v ! r us is that it invades a host, replicates itself via hijacking cells, and then comes out with bodily fluid (sneezes, coughs, etc.) and then goes on to repeat that process in different hosts, which is how it "spreads". So scientists would need to try and confirm that by again isolating & purify out those same particles from the hosts fluid samples. If the particles are discovered again in the exposed sick hosts, but not in the otherwise equally treated control group, then those particles could be said to be something like real life v ! r uses. They'd still need to do further studies to confirm the "hijack cells" theory, but hopefully you get the idea. OBVIOUS FLAWS OF VIROLOGY Virologists can’t just take pictures of something or sequence genetic material or claim symptoms/effects equals proof of a “v ! r us”. They need to FIRST demonstrate that through proper experimentation that follows the scientific method - That approach has never occurred in validating what they claim. It's simply a circular reasoning kind of belief system. Their claims of “we have pictures” is ridiculous because microscopic particles don’t have little name tags on them that say “I’m a v ! rus”. Their claims of genetic sequencing and pcr detection is equally ridiculous because they never separated out a “v ! r us" in the first place to prove that’s the origin of the genetic material. They assume they found a virus by comparing it to genetic “virus templates” that were ALSO “found” the same way. It’s like claiming to have found a unicorn based on genetic material that you believe has a genetic similarity to that of a previous unicorn, yet no one ever found an ACTUAL Unicorn to get any genetic material in the first place! Their claims of Effects/Symptoms equals an obvious sign of a “v ! r us” is probably the worst one yet. “The burned bodies MUST have been caused by a fire breathing dragon!". Their claims of “cytophathic effects” (i.e. cell destruction) observed in cell cultures equals a “v ! r us” must be the cause of it is really just silly, for reasons that should be obvious. So on and so forth… Just an endless loop of circular reasoning. Thanks for reading. Feel free to let me know if you have any questions.

[@chrisklest1238]

Bob, wouldn't it be the same thing, but just starting from scratch?

[@richtraube2241]

Great, very informative. Would love to see Dr. Yancopoulos in future episodes addressing some of the long-term effects.

[@kimmichelangenhovenlagorce306]

absolutely and I would love to ask some questions too!

[@VJ_7137]

Great session 🌺 enjoyed listening 🎧 good to see the awesome student in Dr.. Tyeson ... great questions 🎧 thank you 🙏

[@lmullen9478]

Wow! This was such an informative segment! Thank you for sharing your knowledge in a way that is not difficult to digest like so many medical papers are.

[@AkramRmerc]

Thanks, my friend, more shows like this on this subject are need. You're the best!

[@Sherrilynn27]

This is exactly how my physician explained viruses and vaccination when my first child was born. I of course did my own fact checking as well. This is how elementary and high school health classes should be presenting this topic. Good work gentlemen.

[@seivaDsugnA]

This is 1st year immunology with a dash pathophysiology in the USA. It's only high school there if your school curriculum isn't snuffed down by delusional anti-science weirdos on the schoolboard. In Canada, it's grade 11-12 level biology, if you have a passionate teacher. There's some new techno in there too regarding RNA vaccines. Cool stuff indeed, if you like to get small.

[@ashtreylil1]

I love the guests who really go into depth on the topic. More of this

[@Cat-cf9ru]

A learn a lot thank you 🤩

[@joecalandra3169]

Great, discussion. Obviously Neal and George are brilliant and are funny..Would love to hear more about their HS days.. Some serious HS science classes for sure.

[@fluid1614]

Great to be reminded that with all I thought I knew about COVID treatment, vaccines etc. my knowledge can be more greatly expanded.

[@HGALAXIES]

Once again you guys nailed it with an amazing informative program. ✌👍

[@teratrex02]

THIS IS SO AWESOME, I HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH FROM THIS. SO SO MUCH

[@whitman911]

I am so thankful for people like these gentlemen. Real information.

[@mih1961]

That was awesome, thankyou for clearing up so much about this topic.

[@klasi58]

Thank you Dr. Tyson for this incredibly informative video. Please extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. George Yancopoulos.

[@jacob-cs5fx]

I am going to miss you guys while being away for another 6 months of training.. poor me. love you guys and keep up the entertaining science. MUCH LOVE

[@batman6540]

"An innefficient virus kills his host, a clever one stays with it." J.Lovelock

[@GeoHvl]

Very informative. I contracted Covid even after having the Pfizer vaccine in January 2021. I received the REGEN-Cov2 infusion on the 3rd day. I’m 67 fair health was not hospitalized. Tested negative on day 12.

[@silvershadow013]

The immunization was only to prevent death and serious illness, not to make you immune.

[@MTKRAILROAD]

@@silvershadow013 It also prevents you from getting it in the first place so you kinda are. It doesn't just protect against illness and death but also drastically lowers your chances of spreading it to others

[@GP-qb9hi]

@@silvershadow013 That's not the point. The protection from the vaccine doesn't last a full year.

[@GP-qb9hi]

@@MTKRAILROAD You can only spread if you are infected with or without symptoms.

[@korbandallas8931]

the vaccine has nothing to do with contracting it. That's why the divide and hatred towards those who choose to fight it naturally makes no sense.

[@christinelafromboise6731]

This was incredibly interesting. He made it all understandable. Excellent guest. Thank you.

[@MichaelYISRAEL]

Great interview. Very illustrative. I wish more people will watch your channel.

[@mdturnerinoz]

Great episode guys; thanks!

[@myleanwe6738]

Thank you for using many methods of teaching, to teach all different types of learners in a beneficial way. Especially when we’re not all experts in all, or any field/s. You all are undoubtedly highly appreciated, and respected.

[@kimmichelangenhovenlagorce306]

Thats what I loved too until I realised I could educate myself! With pertinent informative facts.

[@kimmichelangenhovenlagorce306]

Thats what I loved too until I realised I could educate myself! With pertinent informative facts.

[@kimmichelangenhovenlagorce306]

Thats what I loved too until I realised I could educate myself! With pertinent informative facts.

[@myleanwe6738]

@@kimmichelangenhovenlagorce306 The more we do just that in various ways, and share it, the more inspiration goes out to continue to.

[@raystanczak4277]

Thanks Neil for an excellent show-I knew very little about this technology, and this was a good basic overview of what monoclonal antibodies are, and what their applications are both now and in the future. Promising in the extreme! I’ll add this to the other excellent sources out there-like the Department of Biology at MIT, Dr. Mike Hansen, and others.

[@anthonyhawkins4136]

Pretty shameful that you haven’t even done your due diligence that this is so surprising to you. Really shameful.

[@essspada64]

Get off your high horse bud. Who are you to pass shame and judgments to someone actually taking time to educate themselves. I’m sure you’re very uneducated in plenty of areas, but there’s character in those who don’t go poking at people just because of their lack of intelligence in said areas.

[@TheEcono]

Awesome explanations thank you ********

[@davidwebb2816]

To all of you. Thank you for your Great work 😃