Roger Kornberg is worried that another potentially globe-threatening pandemic might be brewing after COVID-19. Unlike most people, he may have a way to prevent it.
A prominent figure in molecular and structural biology, known for elucidating the mechanism of gene transcription in eukaryotes, Kornberg was also the laureate for the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2006. He has a history with the prize. His father, Arthur Kornberg, won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1959. Two other laureates - Aaron Klug and Francis Crick - served as his postdoctoral advisors.
The 78-year-old scientist recently attended an inaugural series of lectures in Taipei hosted by Taiwan's national research institute, Academia Sinica. This marks his third visit to Taiwan; his first was 41 years ago during his honeymoon.
In an exclusive interview with Storm Media, Kornberg spoke excitedly about his academic journey, his defense of science, and his vision of ending diseases.
Independent Thought
While interested in chemistry and physics from a young age, neither was Kornberg's first choice of major in college.
"During my studies at Harvard, I initially majored in English literature, not science."
He later decided to pursue a career in chemistry because he found it more engaging than writing or literary criticism.
Even so, this literary background endowed Kornberg with a renowned storytelling prowess, which he emphasizes as a basic skill for young scientists to convey their discoveries.
"Learn to tell a story, and tell it well...Spend time preparing before speaking, practice relentlessly, make corrections and improvements, and learn to tell an engaging story. It's a performance."
This background in the humanities also contributed to Kornberg's highly independent streak in his choice of topics he researched and published on. His advisors supported this tendency during his postdoctoral studies, allowing him to publish under his name alone.
Concerned about Anti-Science Rhetoric
When asked about his legacy to the world, Kornberg first noted his children, as well as his students and postdoctoral researchers.
He also remains committed to defending science against attacks. He expressed concern over threats to the U.S. scientific community, specifically decrying U.S. President Trump's recent budget cuts for research at schools and institutions.
"America has always been an engine for scientific growth, but now the government is moving in the opposite direction. We're now faced with the challenge of surviving attacks under Trump's administration...Trump's actions are significantly reducing America's standing."
He also criticized the growing tide of anti-science rhetoric in the country.
"They are not only ignorant about science, but because of ignorance and fear, they attack science with hostility. America has never faced such a terrible presidency. This time, America will endure but sustain damage, making science one of the casualties."
As to how young scientists should survive these times, Kornberg notes:
"Many are deeply concerned not only about governmental attacks on science but also the declining public confidence in science. Some colleagues suggest that education, particularly in critical thinking, is the sole solution. Indeed, that's essential, and we can do better."
Nevertheless, Kornberg believes that "the true solution to this problem lies with the government. As citizens, we must exert pressure on the government."
Developing a Drug to Prevent and Treat Pandemics
To counter a potential future pandemic, Kornberg is developing small interfering RNA (siRNA) as a preventive treatment method for viral infections.
"This drug was developed two years ago and is not only effective but is the only solution presently available to prevent and treat the next pandemic."
The new drug is currently under regulatory review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Kornberg hopes regulators will recognize it as a viable alternative to traditional vaccines, but lists two main challenges to its approval.
"Firstly, regulatory hesitation. Regulators are highly knowledgeable, diligent, and informed, but excessively risk-averse, leading to protracted approval processes for new drugs. Secondly, financial backing. Potential investors, although equipped with ample resources, are also exceptionally risk-averse and indecisive. As a result, the new drug is at an impasse between capitalism and government."
Researching New Drug to Fight Brain Cancer
Kornberg is also interested in treating brain cancer, specifically the highly malignant glioblastoma. His Stanford colleague's 16-year-old child and a department head were two victims of the disease, with another friend currently also afflicted.
He is collaborating with a prominent immunology and oncology expert from Stanford on a new drug to fight the disease.
"I hope the newly developed drug can be approved for life-saving applications for brain tumor patients, alleviating their suffering."
The drug is scheduled for trial in January. If successful, it could then be applied in live trials to children with limited time left, potentially saving lives.
Ending Disease
Kornberg is also dedicating the remainder of his life to the grand goal of eradicating human diseases.
But is such an idea even possible? Kornberg's wife, close collaborator, and friends are skeptical.
"Many competent colleagues and friends smarter than myself question whether diseases are too complex, the challenge too daunting, and if this goal is truly achievable," Kornberg humorously notes.
Despite facing government hostility and peers' skepticism, Kornberg still hopes to realize his dream.
"Not only do I see progress, but I am also convinced of basic principles. Our activities and existence, inherently chemical, are understandable and resolvable through chemical means."
