TED: Solving medical mysteries | Joe DeRisi

The video explores the development of a handheld diagnostic assay for detecting viruses using DNA chips. It discusses the challenges of virus evolution and conservation, the creation of DNA chips, and their application in detecting respiratory viruses. Real-world testing with patient samples is highlighted, including a case study of an undiagnosed respiratory illness. The video concludes with a discussion on the potential link between a new retrovirus and prostate cancer, opening new avenues for research.

What new insight or understanding did you gain from this video?