Episode 20 | The Science Of Microbes | Dr. David J. Gonzalez, Associate Professor Skaggs School of Pharmacy / Department of Pharmacology

Welcome to "The Science Of" Podcast, where students from the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA sit down with top scientists, doctors, and other leaders in the world of science from the globally renowned UCSD and the UCSD Moores Cancer Center in La Jolla, CA.

In this episode, Riley James, Haydee Arancibia-Hardwick, and Margaux Stack-Babich from the UCSD Moores Cancer Center sit down to discuss THE SCIENCE OF MICROBES with Dr. David Gonzalez, an Associate Professor in Pharmacology at the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, as the Founder and Director for the Collaborative Center of Multiplexing Proteomics.  Dr. Gonzalez was on this episode joined by his sons, David Jr. and Isaiah, and a lab researcher, Yesenia, an alumna of UC-Riverside.  They discuss the importance of microbes, their roles in human health, and the impact of antibiotics on gut microbiomes. They highlight the potential of proteomics in understanding protein interactions and the need for alternative therapeutics. The conversation also touches on the personal and professional journeys of the participants, emphasizing the importance of education and perseverance in scientific careers.

Enjoy this episode and get your PODucation on!! 

"Rapid Fire" Warm-Up Round and Personal Introductions

• The guests participate in a rapid-fire warm-up round, answering questions about their first science experiments and favorite musicians.
• Dr. Gonzalez shares his first science experiment involving making plastic in a chemistry class, which sparked his interest in science.
• Isaiah, David Jr. and Yesenia share their first experiences with science projects 
• The guests discuss their favorite musicians, with from Tame Impala to Kendrick Lamar

Microbes and Their Importance

• Dr. Gonzalez explains the role of microbes as the gatekeepers of the world, contributing to oxygen production and metabolism in the gut.
• The conversation touches on the balance between good and bad microbes, with Dr. Gonzalez emphasizing that microbes can be both beneficial and harmful depending on context.
• The guests discuss the importance of the gut microbiome and its impact on human health, including the role of stool samples in microbiome research.
• Dr. Gonzalez highlights the advancements in microbiome research at UCSD and the importance of understanding the microbiome for future medical treatments.

Applications of Microbiome Research

• The guests discuss the potential of the gut microbiome in treating diseases and the role of probiotics and antibiotics in maintaining gut health.
• Dr. Gonzalez mentions the impact of antibiotics on the gut microbiome and the rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
• The conversation shifts to the role of the microbiome in cancer treatment and the potential of immunotherapies.
• Dr. Gonzalez shares insights on the use of checkpoint inhibitors and the microbiome's influence on treatment efficacy.

Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Industry

• The guests address the challenges of antibacterial and antimicrobial products, emphasizing the need for awareness of antibiotic resistance.
• Dr. Gonzalez discusses the overuse of antibiotics and the importance of finding alternative therapeutic approaches, such as vaccines.
• The conversation highlights the role of proteomics in understanding the proteome and its applications in medical research.
• Dr. Gonzalez explains the power of proteomics in providing a comprehensive view of protein interactions and its potential in developing new drugs.

Impact of COVID-19 on Scientific Careers

• The guests share their personal experiences and the impact of COVID-19 on their scientific careers and educational paths.
• Isaiah discusses the chall