In the latest episode of JGI’s monthly podcast, Genome Insider, host Alison Takemura interviews Setsuko Wakao and Kris Niyogi, biologists at UC Berkeley. During this 20-minute episode, the two, who are also in the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging (MBIB) Division, discuss their research on a tiny group of algae with insanely gorgeous exterior shells.
In addition to building these intricate shells, diatoms also are responsible for trapping 20 percent of the world’s carbon dioxide annually via photosynthesis. But when diatoms die, that carbon stays locked in their shell and is later released when the fossils are used as fuel. Wakao and Niyogi are interested in learning more about the mechanisms behind what’s being called the “biological carbon pump.”
Tune into the latest episode of Genome Insider.
