My guest is Dr. Melissa Ilardo, Ph.D., professor of biomedical informatics at the University of Utah. We discuss the interplay between genes and behaviors, including how certain behaviors can improve resilience by changing gene and organ function, as well as natural selection events happening in humans today.We also discuss the immune system–related reasons people find the smells of potential mates attractive—or not.We explore how physical and psychological traits are passed from one generation to the next, and the specific behaviors that can influence gene expression to improve health and performance.Melissa explains her lab’s pioneering research on breath-hold training and how activation of the dive reflex through breath holding can significantly improve oxygen availability by changing spleen size and function.We also delve into the medical uses and ethics of gene editing to cure disease in both babies and adults.For those interested in genes and inheritance, human performance, immune system function, and natural selection, this episode illustrates the remarkable interplay between human nature and nurture.Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsorsAG1: https://drinkag1.com/hubermanJoovv: https://joovv.com/hubermanEight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/hubermanLMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/hubermanFunction: https://functionhealth.com/hubermanTimestampsDisclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices