About this episode

Emily and Perry explore the potential of RNA, its differences from DNA, and its role in vaccines and medical treatments, while addressing conspiracy theories and other health topics.

This week, Emily and Perry explore RNA, a tiny molecule of extraordinary potential. What is it? How is it different from DNA? How have vaccines and an incredible array of potential medical treatments managed to unlock its magic? And what are the conspiracy theories that have been standing in the way? Prepare for medical science to shake hands with technological wonder. Plus: the FDA vs. Whoop, unpacking botulism outbreaks in baby formula, and a mystery “compassionate use” patient for retatrutide. Previous episodes referenced: What's the deal with protein? Submit a question for our weekly mailbag at wellnessactually.fm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Hosts: Emily Oster, Perry Wilson

Topics covered

• mRNA vaccines
• RNA
• DNA
• medical treatments
• conspiracy theories
• FDA
• botulism outbreaks

Keywords

• mRNA
• vaccines
• RNA
• DNA
• medical science
• conspiracy theories
• FDA
• botulism
• retatrutide

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: FDA, Whoop

Products: retatrutide

Books & works: What's the deal with protein?

More episodes of Wellness, Actually with Emily Oster & Perry Wilson, MD

• What's the deal with pregnancy brain? (feat. Allison Williams) · July 16, 2026 · 1h 7m
• What's the deal with cortisol? · July 9, 2026 · 56 min
• What's the deal with full body scans? · June 25, 2026 · 1h 3m
• What's the deal with sleep? · June 18, 2026 · 58 min

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