#123 – Manolis Kellis: Origin of Life, Humans, Ideas, Suffering, and Happiness
Lex Fridman Podcast
Key Insights
Why is the human epigenome considered beautiful?
The human epigenome manages the incredible compaction of DNA, allowing two meters of DNA to be compacted into a tiny nucleus, and controls gene activity patterns in different cells.
How does the epigenome control gene activity?
The epigenome controls gene activity by modifying DNA and histones, which affects how genes are expressed in different cells.
Why do you think Neanderthals went extinct?
Neanderthals likely went extinct due to human conflict and competition for resources, as well as genetic incompatibilities with modern humans.
What is the significance of the ribosome in the history of life?
The ribosome is a complex RNA machine that translates RNA into protein, marking one of the great inventions in the history of life.
How does Manolis Kellis view the concept of a rat race in life?
Manolis Kellis views the rat race as focusing on the destination rather than the journey, advocating for a life focused on the path and the experiences along the way.
What advice does Manolis Kellis give for dealing with the bad days in life?
Manolis Kellis advises embracing the full range of human emotions, including sadness and misery, and teaching children that life can be unfair and that's okay.
How does Manolis Kellis feel about aging and mortality?
Manolis Kellis accepts aging as a natural part of life and sees it as a journey of transformation and growth, embracing the struggles and joys along the way.
What does Manolis Kellis consider the best of MIT?
Manolis Kellis considers the best of MIT to be the environment where people are respected for their ideas and passion, regardless of their position or background.
Chapters
- The human epigenome compacts DNA to an incredible degree.
- It controls gene activity in different cell types.
- The epigenome allows cells to remember their identity.
Shownotes Transcript