MMI Monthly: Public Health Stories from Bench to Breakthrough

Why Do Women Fight Infections Better Than Men?

Watch the video version: https://youtu.be/pnnWWDf6U9o?si=CHmOTsWBWLZkpU7N Why do women tend to have stronger immune responses than men? From COVID-19 to influenza, Johns Hopkins researcher Prof. Sabra Klein explains the biological and social factors that shape how we fight disease. Discover the latest science behind sex differences in immunity—and what it means for the future of medicine. Guest: Prof. Sabra Klein, Professor, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health A production of MMI Monthly – From Bench to Breakthrough

From Bugs to Breakthroughs: Tackling Lyme Disease at the Immune Level (with

Over 90% of vector-borne diseases in the U.S. are tick-borne. Yet, prevention tools and treatments remain limited. Today, we discuss Lyme disease — what it is, why it's hard to fight, and how researchers are tackling it at the immune level. We also offer some tips on how to protect yourself from those pesky tick bites! With Professor Nicole Baumgarth, Director Lyme and Tickborne Diseases Research and Education Institute at the Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Gut Feeling: The Hidden Power of Microbes in Your Health

Your body is home to trillions of microbes that influence everything from digestion to disease risk. But how exactly do they shape your health? In this episode of MMI Monthly, we explore the microbiome's role in disease detection, treatment, and even personalized nutrition with Dr. Jotham Suez in the Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Plus, what artificial sweeteners might be doing to your gut—spoiler: it's not what you'd expect.

The Science of Science: Putting Ph(ilosophy) Back Into PhD

In conversation with guest host Thomas Locke, Dr. Gundula Bosch discusses the significance of philosophy in science education, emphasizing the need for an understanding of the basic principles and values which underpin scientific inquiry. She highlights the founding of the R3ISE Center, which aims to integrate philosophy into science education, focusing on the three Rs: rigor, reproducibility, and responsibility. The conversation explores the importance of learning from mistakes, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and the future directions for the R3ISE Center in enhancing continuing scientific education.

COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma: From Emergency to Everyday

In the inaugural episode of MMI Monthly: From Bench to Breakthrough, guest host Thomas Locke explores the evolution of COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) therapy, from starting as an idea at the School of Public Health, to its emergency use during the COVID-19 pandemic to now, four years later, crossing the finish line with its recent FDA approval as a potent treatment for immunocompromised patients. Featuring Professor David Sullivan, the podcast delves into the science behind convalescent plasma, its life-saving potential, and its role in protecting those most vulnerable. Could this breakthrough offer a blueprint for future pandemics?