1 00:00:00,338 --> 00:00:03,255 (mysterious music) 2 00:00:05,749 --> 00:00:06,750 ("5th Symphony" by Beethoven) 3 00:00:06,750 --> 00:00:10,373 Destiny is beyond our control, 4 00:00:11,260 --> 00:00:16,260 our fate already set, perhaps from the onset of disease 5 00:00:18,070 --> 00:00:20,573 or being born with a special ability. 6 00:00:21,983 --> 00:00:25,400 (balls thwacking loudly) 7 00:00:26,575 --> 00:00:28,630 You may think our lives are determined 8 00:00:28,630 --> 00:00:30,243 by the genes we're born with, 9 00:00:34,130 --> 00:00:35,893 but that is not the case. 10 00:00:37,485 --> 00:00:38,970 (elegant music with vocalizations) 11 00:00:38,970 --> 00:00:42,060 According to the latest scientific findings, 12 00:00:42,060 --> 00:00:44,823 there's a remarkable system within our genes. 13 00:00:46,530 --> 00:00:48,833 There's the hope that you can change fate. 14 00:00:52,212 --> 00:00:54,462 And that system is DNA switches. 15 00:01:00,450 --> 00:01:04,410 Within our DNA is an element that acts like a switch, 16 00:01:04,410 --> 00:01:06,660 changing our lives dramatically, 17 00:01:06,660 --> 00:01:09,883 depending on whether it's set to on or off. 18 00:01:11,120 --> 00:01:13,773 This is the field of epigenetics. 19 00:01:17,706 --> 00:01:18,539 (sobbing) 20 00:01:18,539 --> 00:01:20,973 For example, let's take disease. 21 00:01:23,000 --> 00:01:25,423 We all have genes that can prevent them. 22 00:01:27,610 --> 00:01:30,440 One of the triggers for cancer and diabetes 23 00:01:30,440 --> 00:01:33,663 is when certain switches are turned off. 24 00:01:35,710 --> 00:01:37,233 But if you flip it back on. 25 00:01:39,500 --> 00:01:42,870 So I have great news for you in terms of your CAT scan. 26 00:01:42,870 --> 00:01:45,923 So it has not grown at all, which is excellent news. 27 00:01:46,770 --> 00:01:48,420 We now know there are switches 28 00:01:48,420 --> 00:01:50,173 for all kinds of genes, 29 00:01:51,370 --> 00:01:56,163 like those for obesity, memory, or musical ability. 30 00:01:59,920 --> 00:02:03,973 All these genes may be controllable. 31 00:02:06,390 --> 00:02:09,840 Studies are even exploring whether DNA in sperm 32 00:02:09,840 --> 00:02:12,700 could be passed on to children in a healthier state 33 00:02:13,720 --> 00:02:16,960 by treating the future father-to-be. 34 00:02:16,960 --> 00:02:19,040 Try to identify how we can 35 00:02:19,040 --> 00:02:21,920 positively influence our next generation. 36 00:02:21,920 --> 00:02:24,790 I believe that epigenetic signals 37 00:02:24,790 --> 00:02:26,773 can indeed change the destiny. 38 00:02:27,860 --> 00:02:30,140 These DNA switches exist 39 00:02:30,140 --> 00:02:32,233 in the bodies of all of us. 40 00:02:33,100 --> 00:02:37,013 Join us on a journey into this extraordinary world. 41 00:02:49,790 --> 00:02:52,100 So what are these DNA switches 42 00:02:52,100 --> 00:02:53,943 that can change our destinies? 43 00:02:57,450 --> 00:02:59,630 Cutting edge research is taking place 44 00:02:59,630 --> 00:03:01,593 at this laboratory in Spain. 45 00:03:03,180 --> 00:03:05,220 This is Professor Manel Esteller 46 00:03:05,220 --> 00:03:07,913 from Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute. 47 00:03:09,700 --> 00:03:12,053 What we are doing here is extracting 48 00:03:12,053 --> 00:03:14,733 the genetic material, the DNA. 49 00:03:16,240 --> 00:03:20,192 Floating right there are fragments of DNA. 50 00:03:20,192 --> 00:03:23,530 (intriguing music) 51 00:03:23,530 --> 00:03:27,840 Using futuristic technology, scientists have shed new light 52 00:03:27,840 --> 00:03:31,433 on the workings of this mysterious microscopic world. 53 00:03:32,710 --> 00:03:37,710 So all, each point, it's a small sequence of DNA. 54 00:03:39,067 --> 00:03:41,670 These dots, in green and red, 55 00:03:41,670 --> 00:03:44,603 show the state of DNA switches being scanned. 56 00:03:45,639 --> 00:03:50,639 Green means the switch is turned on, red is off. 57 00:03:53,103 --> 00:03:56,410 We now have the technology to study in a very fast manner, 58 00:03:56,410 --> 00:04:00,520 in a few days, something that took us before years to do. 59 00:04:00,520 --> 00:04:04,850 Now in five days, you can obtain this complete epigenome, 60 00:04:04,850 --> 00:04:08,670 the complete circuit of switch-on 61 00:04:08,670 --> 00:04:10,403 and switch-offs in our genome. 62 00:04:11,400 --> 00:04:13,710 This is what we call epigenetics. 63 00:04:13,710 --> 00:04:17,143 Epi means beyond, beyond genetics. 64 00:04:20,700 --> 00:04:21,533 Let's learn more 65 00:04:21,533 --> 00:04:23,363 about how this mechanism works. 66 00:04:24,694 --> 00:04:27,611 (mysterious music) 67 00:04:30,340 --> 00:04:34,850 Our bodies are made up of roughly 40 trillion cells, 68 00:04:34,850 --> 00:04:37,783 with DNA contained in every single one. 69 00:04:40,559 --> 00:04:42,980 (ticking) 70 00:04:42,980 --> 00:04:44,530 Its structure is distinctive 71 00:04:45,580 --> 00:04:48,163 with its unmistakable double helix. 72 00:04:52,140 --> 00:04:56,860 98% of our genome used to be called junk DNA, 73 00:04:56,860 --> 00:04:59,223 until we realized its significance. 74 00:05:01,220 --> 00:05:06,220 The remaining 2% form our genes, the blueprints for life. 75 00:05:07,940 --> 00:05:10,420 Genes contain instruction manuals 76 00:05:10,420 --> 00:05:12,950 on how to make parts of our body, 77 00:05:12,950 --> 00:05:15,453 such as the heart, stomach, and gut. 78 00:05:17,300 --> 00:05:18,363 But that's not all. 79 00:05:19,967 --> 00:05:22,073 There are genes that increase our stamina, 80 00:05:25,530 --> 00:05:27,403 that enhance musical ability, 81 00:05:32,410 --> 00:05:34,730 there are even genes that prevent diseases 82 00:05:34,730 --> 00:05:36,583 like cancer and diabetes, 83 00:05:38,330 --> 00:05:41,203 information packets that could save our life. 84 00:05:46,320 --> 00:05:48,660 And there's a system that fundamentally alters 85 00:05:48,660 --> 00:05:53,293 how our genes work, the DNA switches. 86 00:05:58,360 --> 00:06:01,513 For example, they can enhance creativity. 87 00:06:02,881 --> 00:06:04,860 (violins play slowly) There you go. 88 00:06:04,860 --> 00:06:07,060 In fact, we all have this gene. 89 00:06:08,280 --> 00:06:10,380 All right, your first driving, are you ready? 90 00:06:10,380 --> 00:06:11,983 Put it on your first string. 91 00:06:13,290 --> 00:06:14,600 But crucially, Good. 92 00:06:14,600 --> 00:06:16,900 what decides our fate 93 00:06:16,900 --> 00:06:19,683 is whether it's on or off. 94 00:06:23,810 --> 00:06:27,688 At least one switch like this exists for every gene, 95 00:06:27,688 --> 00:06:31,583 and it's believed that there are over 20,000 of them. 96 00:06:34,070 --> 00:06:37,970 Scientists now believe that the keys to our composition, 97 00:06:37,970 --> 00:06:42,653 health, and abilities, are held by DNA switches. 98 00:06:45,490 --> 00:06:49,153 So how do these switches manipulate our destinies? 99 00:06:49,153 --> 00:06:52,130 (electronic warbling) 100 00:06:52,130 --> 00:06:54,163 We're about to reveal their secrets. 101 00:06:56,343 --> 00:07:01,343 (intense music) (footsteps falling loudly) 102 00:07:04,240 --> 00:07:07,760 Scientists studying twins have helped us understand 103 00:07:07,760 --> 00:07:09,133 this fascinating new field. 104 00:07:17,870 --> 00:07:19,640 This is Doctor Nancy Segal 105 00:07:19,640 --> 00:07:24,470 at the California State University, who is a twin herself. 106 00:07:24,470 --> 00:07:27,100 You can see that when they take off their shirts, 107 00:07:27,100 --> 00:07:28,720 the hair on the chest is in exactly 108 00:07:28,720 --> 00:07:30,530 the same lines and swirls, 109 00:07:30,530 --> 00:07:33,320 they hold the can with the pinky finger underneath, 110 00:07:33,320 --> 00:07:34,830 and you can see the same bald heads, 111 00:07:34,830 --> 00:07:36,403 and mustaches, and glasses. 112 00:07:38,730 --> 00:07:40,990 Doctor Segal was particularly interested 113 00:07:40,990 --> 00:07:45,990 in identical twins and has studied over 1000 pairs so far. 114 00:07:49,110 --> 00:07:51,120 Well identical twins are this great mystery 115 00:07:51,120 --> 00:07:52,590 because they're so much alike, 116 00:07:52,590 --> 00:07:56,610 and yet a particular pair who matches on so many things 117 00:07:56,610 --> 00:07:59,640 can differ in one very profound way, 118 00:07:59,640 --> 00:08:01,883 and diseases seems to be one of them. 119 00:08:04,370 --> 00:08:07,093 So this is Erica and this is Monica. 120 00:08:08,120 --> 00:08:10,230 Erica's always had like this little bit of roundness 121 00:08:10,230 --> 00:08:15,230 in her face and I have the Hoffman long chin. 122 00:08:15,570 --> 00:08:17,380 But not then, it's mostly, I would, 123 00:08:17,380 --> 00:08:18,960 I think it came from our eyes, Monica and Erica 124 00:08:18,960 --> 00:08:22,270 are identical twins. Look a little different. 125 00:08:22,270 --> 00:08:24,079 Very 'cause I have my dad's. 126 00:08:24,079 --> 00:08:26,662 (gentle music) 127 00:08:27,610 --> 00:08:30,200 Since they came from the same fertilized egg, 128 00:08:30,200 --> 00:08:32,703 they share the exact same DNA. 129 00:08:33,654 --> 00:08:34,487 In case something happens, 130 00:08:34,487 --> 00:08:35,810 in case we fight. But four years ago, 131 00:08:35,810 --> 00:08:37,973 their lives changed dramatically. 132 00:08:42,140 --> 00:08:44,513 Monica was diagnosed with breast cancer. 133 00:08:49,100 --> 00:08:51,570 She was treated with chemotherapy, 134 00:08:51,570 --> 00:08:54,053 but last year the cancer returned. 135 00:09:03,229 --> 00:09:06,560 On the other hand, Erica is a picture of health, 136 00:09:06,560 --> 00:09:08,563 with no signs of illness at all. 137 00:09:10,830 --> 00:09:13,163 Of course I cried, the shock. 138 00:09:14,430 --> 00:09:18,310 It was more not knowing yet, 'cause they tell you 139 00:09:18,310 --> 00:09:20,990 oh you have breast cancer, it's this, it's that, 140 00:09:20,990 --> 00:09:23,090 it's stage, blah, blah, blah, blah, 141 00:09:23,090 --> 00:09:24,880 and it just like was a lot. 142 00:09:24,880 --> 00:09:27,527 I was mad and everyone says all, you know, 143 00:09:27,527 --> 00:09:29,800 think about God, and I'm like really, 144 00:09:29,800 --> 00:09:32,583 you wanna put God in the situation, I still don't. 145 00:09:37,160 --> 00:09:39,327 (sobbing) 146 00:09:44,592 --> 00:09:46,890 They have exactly the same DNA, 147 00:09:46,890 --> 00:09:49,253 so why did only one get cancer? 148 00:09:54,700 --> 00:09:58,960 According to an analysis of 16,000 sets of twins, 149 00:09:58,960 --> 00:10:02,270 it's believed that the chances of both twins getting cancer 150 00:10:02,270 --> 00:10:06,343 through inherited genes is only around 8%. 151 00:10:08,440 --> 00:10:11,370 So even in twins with matching DNA, 152 00:10:11,370 --> 00:10:14,453 it's rare for both to suffer from the same affliction. 153 00:10:16,030 --> 00:10:20,343 What's in the remaining 92% that causes us to get cancer? 154 00:10:23,030 --> 00:10:25,080 Until recently, we thought it was connected 155 00:10:25,080 --> 00:10:28,763 to the environment we grew up in, or our lifestyles. 156 00:10:31,960 --> 00:10:35,560 But now research is telling us that these DNA switches 157 00:10:35,560 --> 00:10:37,573 may be playing a big role. 158 00:10:41,336 --> 00:10:42,169 How do we look in? 159 00:10:42,169 --> 00:10:43,130 The new finding comes 160 00:10:43,130 --> 00:10:45,280 from Professor Stephen Baylin, 161 00:10:45,280 --> 00:10:47,650 a global authority on cancer research 162 00:10:47,650 --> 00:10:49,513 at Johns Hopkins University. 163 00:10:51,290 --> 00:10:55,860 Off, on, and that's how we look 164 00:10:55,860 --> 00:10:58,303 at genes in the laboratory. 165 00:10:59,490 --> 00:11:00,630 So this is a code. 166 00:11:00,630 --> 00:11:02,380 Professor Baylin took an interest 167 00:11:02,380 --> 00:11:04,413 in several genes that suppress cancer. 168 00:11:08,590 --> 00:11:10,433 Take breast cancer as an example. 169 00:11:11,700 --> 00:11:14,733 It develops in the mammary gland that produces milk. 170 00:11:18,702 --> 00:11:20,380 (electronic warbling) 171 00:11:20,380 --> 00:11:24,080 These are the first pictures from inside the mammary gland, 172 00:11:24,080 --> 00:11:26,483 captured by an electron microscope. 173 00:11:28,910 --> 00:11:33,003 The spheres you can see inside are the source of breastmilk. 174 00:11:33,890 --> 00:11:36,530 The milk is actually produced by these cells 175 00:11:36,530 --> 00:11:39,020 surrounding the mammary gland. 176 00:11:39,020 --> 00:11:41,790 And to ensure that there's an adequate supply, 177 00:11:41,790 --> 00:11:44,613 cells in the mammary gland have to keep multiplying. 178 00:11:45,901 --> 00:11:49,318 (whooshing and gurgling) 179 00:11:51,180 --> 00:11:53,143 But when they grow beyond control, 180 00:11:57,840 --> 00:11:59,390 it can end up as breast cancer. 181 00:12:04,510 --> 00:12:06,310 It's times like these where genes 182 00:12:06,310 --> 00:12:09,113 that can suppress cancer become indispensable. 183 00:12:11,050 --> 00:12:13,010 They have the power to stop cells 184 00:12:13,010 --> 00:12:14,963 from dividing out of control. 185 00:12:18,120 --> 00:12:20,410 While Professor Baylin was studying his group 186 00:12:20,410 --> 00:12:25,410 of 215 cancer patients, he realized that all of them 187 00:12:26,010 --> 00:12:28,373 had the gene that suppresses cancer. 188 00:12:29,990 --> 00:12:32,893 So why were their cells still multiplying? 189 00:12:42,390 --> 00:12:44,070 He checked to see if a phenomenon 190 00:12:44,070 --> 00:12:46,593 called DNA methylation had occurred, 191 00:12:47,990 --> 00:12:50,613 which would mean that the switches were turned off. 192 00:12:55,550 --> 00:12:59,120 And astonishingly, he discovered that in over 60% 193 00:12:59,120 --> 00:13:04,110 of these cancer patients DNA methylation had taken place. 194 00:13:04,110 --> 00:13:06,060 That is the switch for the gene 195 00:13:06,060 --> 00:13:10,030 that suppresses cancer was turned off. 196 00:13:10,030 --> 00:13:11,950 And we really are beginning to understand 197 00:13:11,950 --> 00:13:15,220 that when that cancer turns that switch off on the gene, 198 00:13:15,220 --> 00:13:18,493 that has very poor prognosis 199 00:13:18,493 --> 00:13:20,830 that that creates for the patient 200 00:13:20,830 --> 00:13:22,623 in making that cancer start. 201 00:13:26,230 --> 00:13:28,680 So why were the switches turned off? 202 00:13:30,120 --> 00:13:33,593 And how do these master controllers determine our fate? 203 00:13:38,630 --> 00:13:42,653 Why is one twin sick and the other healthy? 204 00:13:47,560 --> 00:13:50,420 We're inside a cell. 205 00:13:50,420 --> 00:13:53,993 The intricate bundles you see are clusters of DNA. 206 00:13:56,250 --> 00:13:57,603 Let's get a better look. 207 00:13:59,030 --> 00:14:02,623 The gene that suppresses cancer is highlighted in white. 208 00:14:05,260 --> 00:14:08,293 And when this DNA switch is in the on position, 209 00:14:12,070 --> 00:14:14,920 a set of instruction contained inside 210 00:14:14,920 --> 00:14:16,463 is scanned by a reader. 211 00:14:17,555 --> 00:14:19,805 (clicking) 212 00:14:23,621 --> 00:14:25,788 (dinging) 213 00:14:27,050 --> 00:14:30,233 And molecules that suppress cancer are produced. 214 00:14:39,130 --> 00:14:42,380 This stops the cells from multiplying uncontrollably, 215 00:14:42,380 --> 00:14:44,433 and curbs the growth of cancer. 216 00:14:45,730 --> 00:14:49,453 This is when the DNA switch is on and in a healthy state. 217 00:14:51,120 --> 00:14:56,120 However, what happens when the DNA switch is turned off? 218 00:14:58,829 --> 00:15:03,829 (slow tempo music) (gurgling) 219 00:15:04,500 --> 00:15:06,760 This doesn't look good. 220 00:15:06,760 --> 00:15:09,860 The important gene that suppresses cancer, 221 00:15:09,860 --> 00:15:14,333 rope-like here in pink, is completely crumpled up. 222 00:15:16,860 --> 00:15:19,600 In that state, it's not possible to make molecules 223 00:15:19,600 --> 00:15:23,853 that curb cancer or even read the information it contains. 224 00:15:25,040 --> 00:15:27,010 What could be happening here? 225 00:15:27,010 --> 00:15:28,730 Let's go back and see what happens 226 00:15:28,730 --> 00:15:31,233 before the gene gets scrunched up. 227 00:15:31,233 --> 00:15:33,566 (whooshing) 228 00:15:36,400 --> 00:15:41,400 Look, orange molecules are drifting all around this area. 229 00:15:47,900 --> 00:15:50,813 They are responsible for distorting the DNA. 230 00:15:51,800 --> 00:15:54,393 They are called DNA methyl transferase. 231 00:15:56,793 --> 00:15:57,893 And what do they do? 232 00:16:05,140 --> 00:16:08,580 You can see them attaching tiny grain-like substances 233 00:16:08,580 --> 00:16:13,253 to the gene, just 10 millionths of a millimeter in size. 234 00:16:16,210 --> 00:16:17,593 They act like magnets. 235 00:16:19,800 --> 00:16:22,350 Take a look, those tiny grains 236 00:16:22,350 --> 00:16:24,153 are pulling molecules toward them. 237 00:16:32,950 --> 00:16:36,083 Then other sections start attaching themselves, 238 00:16:37,460 --> 00:16:42,070 and ultimately the gene that suppresses cancer in pink 239 00:16:42,070 --> 00:16:44,013 ends up collapsing onto itself. 240 00:16:47,800 --> 00:16:50,133 When the DNA switch is set to on, 241 00:16:51,140 --> 00:16:54,740 the DNA is unfolded, the molecules 242 00:16:54,740 --> 00:16:57,833 that prevent the growth of cancer can be produced. 243 00:17:01,150 --> 00:17:03,293 But when the switch it set to off, 244 00:17:04,550 --> 00:17:07,770 it's not possible to read the instructions, 245 00:17:07,770 --> 00:17:11,093 so these healing molecules cannot be made. 246 00:17:14,660 --> 00:17:18,333 In cancer patients, this switch is thought to be turned off, 247 00:17:19,450 --> 00:17:22,873 perhaps due to an increase of DNA methyl transferase. 248 00:17:29,510 --> 00:17:33,000 It's possible that these switches can be turned off or on 249 00:17:33,000 --> 00:17:36,333 in all 20,000 genes in our bodies. 250 00:17:38,900 --> 00:17:41,403 There are ones that can only change before birth, 251 00:17:43,320 --> 00:17:45,430 and others that can change easily 252 00:17:45,430 --> 00:17:47,280 after we're born. (speaking in foreign language) 253 00:17:47,280 --> 00:17:50,323 Some switches are better for us if they are turned off. 254 00:17:52,590 --> 00:17:55,730 The position of these DNA buttons can determine 255 00:17:55,730 --> 00:18:00,203 our body type, our artistic or physical capabilities, 256 00:18:01,210 --> 00:18:03,523 or our susceptibility to disease. 257 00:18:10,060 --> 00:18:12,140 It's staggering to think that such things 258 00:18:12,140 --> 00:18:14,263 are taking place in our bodies. 259 00:18:18,512 --> 00:18:20,610 (electronic warbling) 260 00:18:20,610 --> 00:18:24,533 But could we influence the DNA switches? 261 00:18:29,306 --> 00:18:32,540 (dramatic music) 262 00:18:32,540 --> 00:18:36,110 It's thought that our lifestyles, like diet and exercise, 263 00:18:36,110 --> 00:18:37,423 can greatly affect them. 264 00:18:39,930 --> 00:18:42,023 Take for example what we eat. 265 00:18:42,951 --> 00:18:44,290 (speaking in foreign language) 266 00:18:44,290 --> 00:18:46,650 At the University of Navarra, 267 00:18:46,650 --> 00:18:48,953 some interesting studies are taking place. 268 00:18:50,289 --> 00:18:54,539 (conversation in foreign language) 269 00:18:59,129 --> 00:19:01,379 (sizzling) 270 00:19:02,440 --> 00:19:05,900 By asking the participants to consume a Mediterranean diet, 271 00:19:05,900 --> 00:19:07,720 rich in olive oil and nuts, 272 00:19:07,720 --> 00:19:11,163 they're examining how food might affect outcomes. 273 00:19:15,650 --> 00:19:18,880 Bon appetit. (glasses clink) 274 00:19:22,450 --> 00:19:24,620 DNA was collected from blood samples 275 00:19:24,620 --> 00:19:26,363 taken from the participants. 276 00:19:27,310 --> 00:19:30,813 By checking whether DNA methylation had taken place or not, 277 00:19:31,760 --> 00:19:34,653 the state of thousands of switches was analyzed. 278 00:19:38,600 --> 00:19:41,540 The researchers discovered that switches that are linked 279 00:19:41,540 --> 00:19:43,860 to preventing metabolic syndrome, 280 00:19:43,860 --> 00:19:46,083 like obesity and high blood pressure, 281 00:19:47,250 --> 00:19:49,213 had changed in the participants. 282 00:19:52,840 --> 00:19:56,590 It's clear that the consumption of olive oil 283 00:19:56,590 --> 00:19:58,760 and the consumption of nuts induced 284 00:19:58,760 --> 00:20:01,270 a specific epigenetic changes 285 00:20:01,270 --> 00:20:04,950 that can explain some of the healthy benefit. 286 00:20:04,950 --> 00:20:08,994 Therefore an epigenetic regulation of inflammatory processes 287 00:20:08,994 --> 00:20:12,140 is important to understand the disease, 288 00:20:12,140 --> 00:20:15,460 but also in some cases to manage, either by the diet 289 00:20:15,460 --> 00:20:20,460 or with other therapeutic procedures to treat this disease. 290 00:20:22,890 --> 00:20:25,811 Meanwhile in a laboratory in Sweden, 291 00:20:25,811 --> 00:20:27,610 researchers are looking to see 292 00:20:27,610 --> 00:20:31,273 if the triggers can be flipped with exercise. 293 00:20:37,330 --> 00:20:39,330 Participants in this study have been asked 294 00:20:39,330 --> 00:20:43,200 to do endurance exercises, together with light resistance, 295 00:20:43,200 --> 00:20:44,413 four times a week. 296 00:20:48,140 --> 00:20:49,223 Three months later, 297 00:20:52,290 --> 00:20:55,320 the results showed changes in DNA switches 298 00:20:55,320 --> 00:20:57,053 related to muscle structure, 299 00:20:58,890 --> 00:21:00,570 and revealed that those involved 300 00:21:00,570 --> 00:21:02,680 in the prevention of disease, 301 00:21:02,680 --> 00:21:07,680 like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, were also altered. 302 00:21:08,140 --> 00:21:11,660 With exercise, you change, you revert that 303 00:21:11,660 --> 00:21:15,240 in a more healthy direction becomes gene expression. 304 00:21:15,240 --> 00:21:17,970 And there are clear signs and I'm quite convinced 305 00:21:17,970 --> 00:21:20,664 that epigenetics do play a role 306 00:21:20,664 --> 00:21:22,933 in that adaptational process. 307 00:21:25,570 --> 00:21:27,790 We can all appreciate how a good diet 308 00:21:27,790 --> 00:21:30,013 and regular exercise is beneficial, 309 00:21:31,400 --> 00:21:35,143 but it's remarkable that they can even affect our DNA. 310 00:21:38,268 --> 00:21:41,185 (intriguing music) 311 00:21:42,250 --> 00:21:45,223 Although details of this mechanism aren't yet clear, 312 00:21:46,770 --> 00:21:49,820 it's currently thought that lifestyle can affect the amount 313 00:21:49,820 --> 00:21:53,075 of DNA methyl transferase produced. 314 00:21:53,075 --> 00:21:56,242 (electronic warbling) 315 00:22:00,400 --> 00:22:02,800 The very latest studies are using drugs 316 00:22:02,800 --> 00:22:05,363 as another way to affect DNA switches. 317 00:22:10,850 --> 00:22:13,090 The doctor in charge of this clinical trial 318 00:22:13,090 --> 00:22:16,810 is Professor Stephen Baylin, the researcher who discovered 319 00:22:16,810 --> 00:22:19,143 how DNA switches can affect cancer. 320 00:22:20,880 --> 00:22:24,333 He's developed a drug that acts directly on DNA. 321 00:22:26,430 --> 00:22:28,790 It's being tested on lung cancer patients 322 00:22:28,790 --> 00:22:31,423 who did not respond to conventional treatments. 323 00:22:32,370 --> 00:22:36,460 We will take this drug, add it to cancer cells, 324 00:22:36,460 --> 00:22:40,170 and that will help turn back on genes 325 00:22:40,170 --> 00:22:43,193 that are abnormally silenced in the cancer cell. 326 00:22:46,820 --> 00:22:49,220 The drug's impact is extraordinary. 327 00:22:51,150 --> 00:22:54,410 Once inside the body, the drug targets the gene 328 00:22:54,410 --> 00:22:57,103 that produces molecules which suppress cancer. 329 00:23:03,830 --> 00:23:05,843 If the drug is absorbed by the gene, 330 00:23:07,540 --> 00:23:10,413 even when DNA methyl transferase is present, 331 00:23:12,164 --> 00:23:14,683 its affects are dampened down. 332 00:23:19,300 --> 00:23:22,683 This is how DNA could maintain its normal appearance, 333 00:23:23,780 --> 00:23:26,283 rather than being curled up into bundles. 334 00:23:30,434 --> 00:23:33,750 (electronic warbling) 335 00:23:33,750 --> 00:23:35,490 The gene can be scanned 336 00:23:35,490 --> 00:23:38,713 to make the all-important cancer suppressing molecules. 337 00:23:43,410 --> 00:23:46,203 Let's go back and see how well this drug has done. 338 00:23:48,508 --> 00:23:49,341 (people speaking over each other) 339 00:23:49,341 --> 00:23:51,810 The results of the trials are being reported 340 00:23:51,810 --> 00:23:53,660 back to the patients. 341 00:23:53,660 --> 00:23:55,120 These are your lungs. 342 00:23:55,120 --> 00:23:58,520 So I have great news for you in terms of your CAT scan. 343 00:23:58,520 --> 00:24:01,670 So it has not grown at all, which is excellent news. 344 00:24:01,670 --> 00:24:04,060 And it means that the treatment that we're doing right now 345 00:24:04,060 --> 00:24:06,283 is helping prevent your cancer from growing. 346 00:24:08,180 --> 00:24:11,130 45 patients with late-stage lung cancer 347 00:24:11,130 --> 00:24:13,203 took part in his clinical trials. 348 00:24:15,460 --> 00:24:19,020 Encouraging results were seen in about 1/3, 349 00:24:19,020 --> 00:24:22,923 and one even became tumor free after treatment. 350 00:24:24,400 --> 00:24:26,960 So this man probably would have been expected 351 00:24:26,960 --> 00:24:28,946 to only live a few months. 352 00:24:28,946 --> 00:24:33,590 The arrow here points to the cancer, 353 00:24:33,590 --> 00:24:35,380 it's this big white blob. 354 00:24:35,380 --> 00:24:38,823 Now we start the therapy, two months later, 355 00:24:40,190 --> 00:24:44,870 this is six months later, and this is eight months later. 356 00:24:44,870 --> 00:24:47,110 And almost everything is gone, 357 00:24:47,110 --> 00:24:49,070 and he went to see his football games 358 00:24:49,070 --> 00:24:50,852 and he did things that he wanted to do. 359 00:24:50,852 --> 00:24:52,220 This is the hope. 360 00:24:54,254 --> 00:24:56,340 (chiming) 361 00:24:56,340 --> 00:24:58,500 So could it be possible to manipulate 362 00:24:58,500 --> 00:25:02,463 our many different DNA switches to improve our abilities, 363 00:25:03,530 --> 00:25:07,830 such as memory, endurance, musical abilities, 364 00:25:07,830 --> 00:25:09,283 and change our fate? 365 00:25:10,678 --> 00:25:13,600 (peaceful music) 366 00:25:13,600 --> 00:25:17,240 In the last decade, a vast amount of research 367 00:25:17,240 --> 00:25:19,650 has been published on the switches, 368 00:25:19,650 --> 00:25:23,623 and studies are exploring ways to alter our genetic destiny. 369 00:25:30,410 --> 00:25:34,840 For example, we're looking into improving memory by running. 370 00:25:39,880 --> 00:25:44,240 When you exercise, levels of DNA methyl transferase decrease 371 00:25:46,920 --> 00:25:50,040 so strands of DNA become untangled, 372 00:25:50,040 --> 00:25:52,840 and the switch for developing neurons in the brain 373 00:25:52,840 --> 00:25:55,380 flips to the on position. 374 00:25:55,380 --> 00:25:58,173 That's why exercise can improve memory. 375 00:26:00,770 --> 00:26:02,993 In order to improve musical ability, 376 00:26:04,930 --> 00:26:07,799 it's essential to listen to lots of music. 377 00:26:07,799 --> 00:26:10,290 (applauding) 378 00:26:10,290 --> 00:26:11,920 When you listen to music, 379 00:26:11,920 --> 00:26:14,780 DNA switches that produce neurotransmitters 380 00:26:14,780 --> 00:26:18,020 involved in hearing become switched on. 381 00:26:18,020 --> 00:26:20,610 This is thought to increase your ability 382 00:26:20,610 --> 00:26:22,883 to differentiate musical tones. 383 00:26:25,010 --> 00:26:27,700 You may have been born with a special talent, 384 00:26:27,700 --> 00:26:31,647 but this alone does not explain the origin of your gift. 385 00:26:31,647 --> 00:26:32,700 (slow violin music) 386 00:26:32,700 --> 00:26:35,390 There is now more emphasis on the crucial role 387 00:26:35,390 --> 00:26:38,500 of these DNA switches, which can be changed 388 00:26:38,500 --> 00:26:41,163 through our own efforts and surroundings. 389 00:26:46,270 --> 00:26:49,553 Ambitious studies are now taking place around the world, 390 00:26:51,430 --> 00:26:54,590 with hopes of reducing aging in skin, 391 00:26:54,590 --> 00:26:58,793 preventing diabetes, or increasing our lifespan. 392 00:27:05,726 --> 00:27:10,726 (waves crashing) (kids cheering) 393 00:27:14,880 --> 00:27:18,070 You may be capable of changing your fate 394 00:27:18,070 --> 00:27:20,103 by manipulating DNA switches. 395 00:27:21,290 --> 00:27:24,393 But there's even more to this fascinating story. 396 00:27:27,230 --> 00:27:31,110 In fact, not only can you choose to change your own fate, 397 00:27:31,110 --> 00:27:34,890 it may be possible to influence your child's, 398 00:27:34,890 --> 00:27:37,223 or even your grandchild's destiny. 399 00:27:41,678 --> 00:27:44,770 (fast tempo music) 400 00:27:44,770 --> 00:27:47,470 Cutting edge research in this field is taking place 401 00:27:47,470 --> 00:27:50,233 at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. 402 00:27:53,070 --> 00:27:54,900 (fast whirring) 403 00:27:54,900 --> 00:27:57,100 Research has shown that exercise 404 00:27:57,100 --> 00:28:00,513 can change the DNA switches in a father's sperm. 405 00:28:04,430 --> 00:28:07,240 An hour of endurance training, five times a week, 406 00:28:07,240 --> 00:28:09,353 for six weeks can do the trick. 407 00:28:18,150 --> 00:28:19,360 It's not just a question 408 00:28:19,360 --> 00:28:21,310 of being able to produce healthy sperm, 409 00:28:24,790 --> 00:28:27,190 the idea is to treat their metabolic syndrome 410 00:28:27,190 --> 00:28:29,833 through weight loss before conceiving a child. 411 00:28:31,424 --> 00:28:32,257 (electronic warbling) 412 00:28:32,257 --> 00:28:35,300 By ensuring their DNA switch is on healthy, 413 00:28:35,300 --> 00:28:38,453 they're hoping that this will be inherited by their baby. 414 00:28:41,760 --> 00:28:44,140 I wanted to be a father myself at some point. 415 00:28:44,140 --> 00:28:46,390 I will definitely take it into consideration. 416 00:28:49,080 --> 00:28:52,540 However, (alarm buzzing) 417 00:28:52,540 --> 00:28:54,970 such ideas would have been thought unthinkable 418 00:28:54,970 --> 00:28:56,993 in science until now. 419 00:28:58,760 --> 00:29:02,780 And that's because sperm goes on to become a fertilized egg 420 00:29:02,780 --> 00:29:06,338 and changes into many different types of cells. 421 00:29:06,338 --> 00:29:07,870 (dramatic music) 422 00:29:07,870 --> 00:29:10,120 We used to think that once the sperm was ready 423 00:29:10,120 --> 00:29:11,650 to fertilize the egg, 424 00:29:11,650 --> 00:29:14,823 its DNA switches would go through a factory reset. 425 00:29:17,750 --> 00:29:21,140 So even if you became overweight through overeating, 426 00:29:21,140 --> 00:29:24,020 or you put on muscle through lifting weights, 427 00:29:24,020 --> 00:29:26,183 or had become smarter through study, 428 00:29:27,380 --> 00:29:30,520 the status of the parent's DNA switches were thought 429 00:29:30,520 --> 00:29:33,180 to be limited to just their lifetime, 430 00:29:33,180 --> 00:29:35,523 and could not be passed on to their children. 431 00:29:37,970 --> 00:29:42,173 But Professor Barres's study challenges this idea. 432 00:29:42,173 --> 00:29:43,006 Here in this slide. 433 00:29:43,006 --> 00:29:46,006 His research suggests that exercising regularly 434 00:29:46,006 --> 00:29:49,684 may be beneficial for future generations, 435 00:29:49,684 --> 00:29:51,160 on a genetic level. 436 00:29:51,160 --> 00:29:55,993 I think it was received with a surprise because it was, 437 00:29:56,923 --> 00:29:58,380 the field is quite new, 438 00:29:58,380 --> 00:30:02,890 and the dogma of a fixed genetic transmission 439 00:30:05,220 --> 00:30:09,214 as the only mean to transfer information 440 00:30:09,214 --> 00:30:12,213 is still very present. 441 00:30:13,316 --> 00:30:14,149 (slow piano music) 442 00:30:14,149 --> 00:30:16,480 Professor Barres's research was inspired 443 00:30:16,480 --> 00:30:19,250 by an earlier study on the population 444 00:30:19,250 --> 00:30:21,603 of a remote area in northern Sweden. 445 00:30:25,170 --> 00:30:28,713 Above the Arctic Circle, is the remote village of Overkalix. 446 00:30:30,441 --> 00:30:33,370 (ominous music) 447 00:30:33,370 --> 00:30:36,070 Residents of Overkalix are often diagnosed 448 00:30:36,070 --> 00:30:40,003 with cardiovascular disease and diabetes at an early age. 449 00:30:41,290 --> 00:30:44,353 Both are linked to problems in metabolism. 450 00:30:54,890 --> 00:30:57,910 Soren Karlsson, who was born in this village, 451 00:30:57,910 --> 00:31:01,703 suffered a heart attack but managed to make a good recovery. 452 00:31:04,729 --> 00:31:08,646 (speaking in foreign language) 453 00:31:21,960 --> 00:31:24,730 Why were so many people struck by disease 454 00:31:24,730 --> 00:31:26,873 at an early age in this village? 455 00:31:27,860 --> 00:31:31,540 Researchers honed in on a potential cause, 456 00:31:31,540 --> 00:31:34,960 epigenetics, the DNA switches 457 00:31:34,960 --> 00:31:38,053 that have now caught the attention of scientists worldwide. 458 00:31:43,720 --> 00:31:47,800 Professor Lars Olov Bygren meticulously analyzed records 459 00:31:47,800 --> 00:31:50,930 of birth, death, and crop harvests 460 00:31:50,930 --> 00:31:54,263 to uncover genetic histories spanning generations. 461 00:31:58,530 --> 00:32:00,740 Bygren discovered that when men here 462 00:32:00,740 --> 00:32:03,030 ate well years before puberty, 463 00:32:03,030 --> 00:32:05,270 their grandchildren had higher risk 464 00:32:05,270 --> 00:32:07,970 of dying from cardiovascular disease. 465 00:32:07,970 --> 00:32:12,970 It was very bounty food in the environment. 466 00:32:15,316 --> 00:32:19,503 And we found in the paternal line, 467 00:32:21,130 --> 00:32:24,770 a response over three generations, 468 00:32:24,770 --> 00:32:27,053 that was quite interesting. 469 00:32:30,750 --> 00:32:32,750 What did this mean exactly? 470 00:32:36,710 --> 00:32:39,200 One generation Professor Barres's research 471 00:32:39,200 --> 00:32:41,240 tries to explain the mechanics 472 00:32:41,240 --> 00:32:43,743 of such trans-generational effects. 473 00:32:45,000 --> 00:32:47,830 In Overkalix, since the villagers grandfathers 474 00:32:47,830 --> 00:32:49,340 had eaten so well, 475 00:32:49,340 --> 00:32:52,830 their DNA switch may have temporarily switched over 476 00:32:52,830 --> 00:32:54,850 to a state that can increase the risk 477 00:32:54,850 --> 00:32:57,630 of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, 478 00:32:57,630 --> 00:33:00,230 and this may have been carried through their sperm 479 00:33:00,230 --> 00:33:03,583 with lasting effects on their children and grandchildren. 480 00:33:05,770 --> 00:33:08,810 Professor Barres's research suggests that these changes 481 00:33:08,810 --> 00:33:11,780 in the DNA may cross over generations 482 00:33:11,780 --> 00:33:13,500 and cause metabolic problems 483 00:33:13,500 --> 00:33:15,300 in their children and grandchildren. 484 00:33:18,350 --> 00:33:20,280 Experiments in mice have shown 485 00:33:20,280 --> 00:33:23,033 similar trans-generational effects. 486 00:33:26,442 --> 00:33:28,240 (slow tempo music) (squeak) 487 00:33:28,240 --> 00:33:31,160 When mice were given a high calorie diet, 488 00:33:31,160 --> 00:33:36,160 their body fat ratio increased by 20% and they became obese. 489 00:33:38,350 --> 00:33:41,060 Their offspring were fed a low calorie diet, 490 00:33:41,060 --> 00:33:44,380 but even then their body fat ratio rocketed up 491 00:33:44,380 --> 00:33:46,563 as high as 70%. 492 00:33:49,360 --> 00:33:51,070 And in the following generation, 493 00:33:51,070 --> 00:33:55,593 their body fat ratio was still 20% higher than normal. 494 00:33:57,330 --> 00:34:00,520 In other words, if the grandparent's generation 495 00:34:00,520 --> 00:34:02,990 was eating a calorie-laden diet, 496 00:34:02,990 --> 00:34:06,750 even if their child or grandchild ate normally, 497 00:34:06,750 --> 00:34:09,123 they were predisposed to obesity. 498 00:34:14,320 --> 00:34:17,260 Professor Barres then looked for further evidence 499 00:34:17,260 --> 00:34:21,070 to back up his theories, this time in people. 500 00:34:21,070 --> 00:34:24,280 So this is our lab, this is where we do our experiments. 501 00:34:24,280 --> 00:34:26,670 Our research is to study. To test his theory, 502 00:34:26,670 --> 00:34:28,583 Professor Barres compared the sperm 503 00:34:28,583 --> 00:34:31,247 from 10 obese men and 13 lean men. 504 00:34:31,247 --> 00:34:33,780 [Professor Barres] Interested in studying sperm cells. 505 00:34:33,780 --> 00:34:35,460 Using the latest technology, 506 00:34:35,460 --> 00:34:39,173 he analyzed the state of the DNA switches in their sperm. 507 00:34:40,031 --> 00:34:42,781 (mystical music) 508 00:34:48,480 --> 00:34:51,353 This is a high resolution image of the sperm. 509 00:34:58,006 --> 00:35:00,600 (electronic warbling) 510 00:35:00,600 --> 00:35:02,750 If you take a look at the cross section 511 00:35:02,750 --> 00:35:04,430 of the head of the sperm cell, 512 00:35:07,880 --> 00:35:10,513 packed tightly in here is DNA. 513 00:35:15,280 --> 00:35:17,323 So what's happening in its switches? 514 00:35:20,600 --> 00:35:23,480 The results showed that the sperm of obese men 515 00:35:23,480 --> 00:35:25,833 had certain switches that weren't reset. 516 00:35:27,070 --> 00:35:29,363 They were set differently from the lean men, 517 00:35:32,800 --> 00:35:37,000 and remarkably these switches were involved 518 00:35:37,000 --> 00:35:39,723 in appetite control and metabolism. 519 00:35:42,010 --> 00:35:44,950 This opens up the intriguing possibility 520 00:35:44,950 --> 00:35:47,770 of a parent passing on their lifestyle traits 521 00:35:47,770 --> 00:35:50,110 to the next generation, 522 00:35:50,110 --> 00:35:53,120 a phenomenon scientists have long refuted, 523 00:35:53,120 --> 00:35:56,420 since the theory of inheritance of acquired characteristics 524 00:35:56,420 --> 00:36:00,503 was introduced in the 19th century by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck. 525 00:36:02,400 --> 00:36:05,220 It is a shocking and very intriguing observation 526 00:36:05,220 --> 00:36:06,660 that's been put forward, 527 00:36:06,660 --> 00:36:10,210 or referred as Lamarckian theory of evolution, 528 00:36:10,210 --> 00:36:13,870 where an acquired trait could be passed on 529 00:36:13,870 --> 00:36:16,713 from one generation to the next. 530 00:36:19,200 --> 00:36:22,300 Professor Barres took his research further 531 00:36:22,300 --> 00:36:24,943 to see the impact of exercise on sperm. 532 00:36:28,330 --> 00:36:31,330 He found that obese men who lose weight 533 00:36:31,330 --> 00:36:34,873 may be able to flip their sperm's coating for the better. 534 00:36:37,430 --> 00:36:39,130 This opens up the possibility 535 00:36:39,130 --> 00:36:42,180 of reversing the downward spiral of passing on 536 00:36:42,180 --> 00:36:45,623 metabolic syndrome to children or grandchildren. 537 00:36:48,461 --> 00:36:50,130 I think it's a positive thing 538 00:36:50,130 --> 00:36:53,440 that you can actually change your children 539 00:36:53,440 --> 00:36:55,943 and also affect their health in a positive way. 540 00:36:56,990 --> 00:36:59,780 I would believe that if environmental factors 541 00:36:59,780 --> 00:37:01,360 such as diet and exercise, 542 00:37:01,360 --> 00:37:04,523 can change the epigenetic content of our gamete, 543 00:37:05,840 --> 00:37:10,160 it's likely to affect our children health later, 544 00:37:10,160 --> 00:37:12,960 or predispose to some disease. 545 00:37:12,960 --> 00:37:16,330 Try to identify how we can positively influence 546 00:37:16,330 --> 00:37:20,613 our next generation in order to favor this. 547 00:37:23,630 --> 00:37:27,053 Your body not only holds the keys to your fate, 548 00:37:28,280 --> 00:37:30,710 but the power to control the destinies 549 00:37:30,710 --> 00:37:32,533 of children yet unborn. 550 00:37:39,870 --> 00:37:41,110 It's astonishing to think 551 00:37:41,110 --> 00:37:44,393 that even DNA switches can be passed down. 552 00:37:47,750 --> 00:37:51,600 It's a theory that's still being debated among scientists, 553 00:37:51,600 --> 00:37:53,490 but if found to be true, 554 00:37:53,490 --> 00:37:57,683 this stunning discovery will re-write biology textbooks. 555 00:38:03,230 --> 00:38:06,910 But we should ask, why is it even necessary 556 00:38:06,910 --> 00:38:09,313 to pass on these switches in the first place. 557 00:38:13,660 --> 00:38:15,833 It might help to think like this. 558 00:38:21,610 --> 00:38:25,550 Our ancestors lived in an unpredictable world, 559 00:38:25,550 --> 00:38:28,003 where food could suddenly become scarce. 560 00:38:29,530 --> 00:38:32,653 It was beneficial to eat whenever food was available. 561 00:38:38,060 --> 00:38:39,480 These switches may have been a way 562 00:38:39,480 --> 00:38:42,740 of providing clues to their future offspring 563 00:38:42,740 --> 00:38:45,613 about the nutritional environment when they are born. 564 00:38:51,060 --> 00:38:53,350 There have even been studies which demonstrate 565 00:38:53,350 --> 00:38:56,333 how the experience of fear can be passed down. 566 00:39:01,798 --> 00:39:03,372 (squeaking) (whooshing) 567 00:39:03,372 --> 00:39:06,220 In this study, mice were given something to sniff, 568 00:39:06,220 --> 00:39:09,113 and right after were given a bit of a fright. 569 00:39:10,070 --> 00:39:11,973 This was repeated a few times. 570 00:39:13,030 --> 00:39:16,420 As they sensed danger, their DNA switch relating 571 00:39:16,420 --> 00:39:19,337 to that specific sense of smell was altered. 572 00:39:19,337 --> 00:39:21,700 (electronic warbling) 573 00:39:21,700 --> 00:39:25,150 So whenever they got a sniff of that same smell, 574 00:39:25,150 --> 00:39:28,010 they became afraid and the altered switch 575 00:39:28,010 --> 00:39:30,393 was inherited by future generations. 576 00:39:33,569 --> 00:39:37,900 (chanting) (clapping) 577 00:39:37,900 --> 00:39:42,363 Passing on information about dangers promotes survival. 578 00:39:44,910 --> 00:39:48,060 Perhaps our ancestors used these DNA switches 579 00:39:48,060 --> 00:39:52,763 to pass on messages to us, even before we invented words. 580 00:40:06,944 --> 00:40:09,194 (gurgling) 581 00:40:10,750 --> 00:40:14,543 The world of DNA switches is unbelievably complex. 582 00:40:15,965 --> 00:40:18,730 (buzzing) 583 00:40:18,730 --> 00:40:21,653 But why is such a system in place in our bodies? 584 00:40:27,010 --> 00:40:30,773 The latest studies are shedding light on its real purpose. 585 00:40:35,260 --> 00:40:39,793 March 1, 2016, (inspiring music) 586 00:40:42,500 --> 00:40:47,500 a spacecraft with precious cargo, the first of its kind, 587 00:40:47,610 --> 00:40:49,150 makes its way back to Earth 588 00:40:49,150 --> 00:40:51,455 from the International Space Station. 589 00:40:51,455 --> 00:40:53,788 (dull roar) 590 00:40:58,800 --> 00:41:00,600 The Soyuz spacecraft was descending 591 00:41:00,600 --> 00:41:03,383 under parachute in the overcast sky. 592 00:41:06,530 --> 00:41:09,383 Emerging from the spaceship is Scott Kelly, 593 00:41:10,340 --> 00:41:13,053 who spent almost a year inside the ISS. 594 00:41:14,450 --> 00:41:18,470 Scott Kelly, Scott Kelly back on Mother Earth 595 00:41:18,470 --> 00:41:21,653 after 340 days in space, Dan. 596 00:41:24,460 --> 00:41:26,760 The special cargo he brought back 597 00:41:28,400 --> 00:41:29,740 are blood samples, (mystical music) 598 00:41:29,740 --> 00:41:32,563 collected in space during his year-long stay. 599 00:41:34,780 --> 00:41:38,073 What we're interested in are his DNA switches. 600 00:41:46,220 --> 00:41:48,573 Scott Kelly is an identical twin, 601 00:41:49,630 --> 00:41:51,963 and his brother is also an astronaut. 602 00:41:57,570 --> 00:42:00,820 Scott's blood was analyzed to see how his switches 603 00:42:00,820 --> 00:42:04,193 had altered before and after his trip to space. 604 00:42:05,030 --> 00:42:08,763 This was compared to his brother's Earth-bound DNA. 605 00:42:21,383 --> 00:42:24,960 The studies that I found most interesting 606 00:42:24,960 --> 00:42:28,250 was the DNA part of it, because NASA had never done 607 00:42:28,250 --> 00:42:30,760 any research in the areas of DNA. 608 00:42:30,760 --> 00:42:33,654 They could compare me and my brother Mark, 609 00:42:33,654 --> 00:42:35,554 and they found some interesting stuff. 610 00:42:38,180 --> 00:42:39,700 The scientist responsible 611 00:42:39,700 --> 00:42:43,343 for this detailed analysis was Doctor Christopher Mason. 612 00:42:44,290 --> 00:42:46,600 And then plot them here, so here's the genes 613 00:42:46,600 --> 00:42:49,910 on this section, different genes as we examine them, 614 00:42:49,910 --> 00:42:52,060 and you can see it's like the big changes. 615 00:42:52,060 --> 00:42:55,080 And so what's extraordinary is we saw thousands of genes 616 00:42:55,080 --> 00:42:57,170 that changed their expression, 617 00:42:57,170 --> 00:43:00,420 and also were really epigenetically disrupted 618 00:43:00,420 --> 00:43:02,070 as soon as you got up into space. 619 00:43:03,730 --> 00:43:08,113 Amazingly, during Scott Kelly's 340 days in space, 620 00:43:10,290 --> 00:43:13,883 over 9000 of his DNA switches were altered. 621 00:43:16,330 --> 00:43:18,793 It was an extraordinary revelation. 622 00:43:19,980 --> 00:43:23,190 Because of the high levels of radiation in space, 623 00:43:23,190 --> 00:43:26,030 DNA gets damaged easily, 624 00:43:26,030 --> 00:43:28,273 increasing the risk of getting cancer. 625 00:43:30,510 --> 00:43:33,490 In order to mitigate this, the switch to repair 626 00:43:33,490 --> 00:43:36,113 any DNA damage gets switched on. 627 00:43:38,150 --> 00:43:41,580 Also, in the zero-gravity environment of space, 628 00:43:41,580 --> 00:43:43,793 our bones progressively get weaker. 629 00:43:45,300 --> 00:43:48,950 To try to prevent this, the switch to increase molecules 630 00:43:48,950 --> 00:43:51,963 to build bone switches itself on. 631 00:43:55,510 --> 00:43:59,673 For us on Earth, those two switches would never flip. 632 00:44:01,540 --> 00:44:03,560 That'd be great if our bodies are even smarter 633 00:44:03,560 --> 00:44:06,500 than I thought and are turning these genes on and off 634 00:44:06,500 --> 00:44:11,500 to compensate or to acclimate to this new environment. 635 00:44:12,910 --> 00:44:15,400 What's interesting is we see the body 636 00:44:15,400 --> 00:44:18,860 has never evolved in space, so suddenly it's confused. 637 00:44:18,860 --> 00:44:22,130 It's trying to take all the lessons from millions of years 638 00:44:22,130 --> 00:44:24,180 of evolution and apply it to space. 639 00:44:24,180 --> 00:44:27,860 And epigenetics is the fastest way 640 00:44:27,860 --> 00:44:31,023 to adapt to the new environment and change your genes. 641 00:44:32,388 --> 00:44:35,330 (bird calling) 642 00:44:35,330 --> 00:44:38,600 Our bodies seem to harbor infinite potential, 643 00:44:38,600 --> 00:44:40,180 even being able to adapt 644 00:44:40,180 --> 00:44:43,558 in an unfamiliar territory like space. 645 00:44:43,558 --> 00:44:46,225 (New Age music) 646 00:44:50,090 --> 00:44:53,210 Our ancestors faced so many challenges, 647 00:44:53,210 --> 00:44:56,670 such as extreme changes in temperature and starvation, 648 00:44:56,670 --> 00:44:59,797 due to rapid changes in their environment. 649 00:44:59,797 --> 00:45:02,714 (musical chanting) 650 00:45:08,290 --> 00:45:12,030 DNA switches may have boosted their chance of survival, 651 00:45:12,030 --> 00:45:13,470 allowing them to quickly 652 00:45:13,470 --> 00:45:16,590 and flexibly overcome environmental challenges 653 00:45:16,590 --> 00:45:18,833 during the course of just one lifetime. 654 00:45:25,200 --> 00:45:27,443 And so humanity prospered. 655 00:45:29,534 --> 00:45:31,867 (whooshing) 656 00:45:34,157 --> 00:45:35,950 (gurgling) 657 00:45:35,950 --> 00:45:38,910 We can think of it like this. 658 00:45:38,910 --> 00:45:41,263 DNA does set us on our path, 659 00:45:43,170 --> 00:45:45,390 but we have the power to help it 660 00:45:45,390 --> 00:45:47,373 guide us toward a better future. 661 00:45:50,800 --> 00:45:53,540 Genes are part of our destiny. 662 00:45:53,540 --> 00:45:55,890 This is like playing poker. 663 00:45:55,890 --> 00:45:58,740 You receive these cards, and you have good cards, 664 00:45:58,740 --> 00:46:00,710 but with good cards, if you are a bad player, 665 00:46:00,710 --> 00:46:03,600 you will lose the game, and vice versa. 666 00:46:03,600 --> 00:46:06,500 Switches really, they push you to be one way or the other. 667 00:46:07,740 --> 00:46:10,140 I think fate you can change, 668 00:46:10,140 --> 00:46:13,460 'cause we all control our own destiny, our future. 669 00:46:13,460 --> 00:46:15,760 We make our own path. 670 00:46:15,760 --> 00:46:18,380 Unfortunately when you get cancer, 671 00:46:18,380 --> 00:46:23,380 it's a timeline in your life that you can't change. 672 00:46:24,440 --> 00:46:28,110 But I do think afterwards you can pick your own journey. 673 00:46:28,110 --> 00:46:30,660 You can figure out how, where you wanna go in life. 674 00:46:37,640 --> 00:46:40,903 Our genome, the enigma within us. 675 00:46:43,870 --> 00:46:47,783 Research is shedding light on how our fates can be changed. 676 00:46:48,893 --> 00:46:50,870 (children babbling) 677 00:46:50,870 --> 00:46:54,403 Doctors in Japan took on a new challenge last year. 678 00:47:00,630 --> 00:47:03,720 There are about 7000 children in Japan 679 00:47:03,720 --> 00:47:05,823 suffering from childhood cancers. 680 00:47:07,590 --> 00:47:10,500 It's now understood that in most of these children, 681 00:47:10,500 --> 00:47:14,503 their DNA switches that suppress cancer had been turned off. 682 00:47:17,110 --> 00:47:20,020 In a clinical trial lasting three years, 683 00:47:20,020 --> 00:47:23,300 they're hoping to develop a new treatment by testing a drug 684 00:47:23,300 --> 00:47:25,193 to flip that switch back on. 685 00:47:31,706 --> 00:47:35,623 (speaking in foreign language) 686 00:47:44,539 --> 00:47:49,039 (triumphant music with vocalizations) 687 00:47:53,350 --> 00:47:55,620 Sheltered within our bodies, 688 00:47:55,620 --> 00:47:58,073 genes are the blueprints for life. 689 00:48:01,190 --> 00:48:04,890 As genes are passed down from parent to child, 690 00:48:04,890 --> 00:48:07,063 and then onto the next child, 691 00:48:07,950 --> 00:48:10,930 this precise yet flexible system 692 00:48:10,930 --> 00:48:14,243 holds the key to humanity's future.