Impulse for the Netflix series "Biohackers"

Have you seen the Netflix series "Biohackers"? It's a German drama set in the world of genetics and biotechnology. The plot follows a medical student named Mia Akerlund who comes to the University of Freiburg to investigate the mysterious disappearance of her brother. She delves deep into the world of biohacking and illegal gene experiments, which puts her and those around her in danger. The series combines elements of thriller and science fiction and raises ethical questions about possible future technologies. Have you seen the series or would you like to find out more?

How close is the series to reality?

"Biohackers" mixes real scientific concepts with fictional elements to tell an exciting story. Some aspects, such as genetic engineering, CRISPR technology and the idea of biohacking, are indeed current topics in the scientific community. However, the depiction and applications of these technologies in the series are dramatised and exaggerate what is currently possible or ethically acceptable.

The scientific processes depicted in the series, such as complex genetic modifications, are much more complicated and tightly regulated in reality. In short, while "Biohackers" is based on real science, many of the scenarios and technologies are adapted for dramatic purposes and do not necessarily reflect the current state of biotechnological research.

Can you use approaches from the series for yourself?

Most of the approaches and technologies in the "Biohackers" series are highly dramatised and not directly applicable to everyday personal biohacking. The series utilises topics such as genetic modification and advanced biotechnology, which are complex in reality and subject to strict regulatory and ethical guidelines.

However, for practical biohacking in everyday life, you can use simpler and safer methods that are based on actual science and can still help improve health and performance. Here are some realistic approaches:

1. Use of wearables - Devices for monitoring heart rate, sleep or activity can provide valuable data that helps to understand and improve personal well-being.
2. Food supplements and nutrition - Some biohackers experiment with various food supplements, vitamins or diets to optimise body and brain functions.
3. Meditation and mindfulness techniques - These practices can help to improve mental focus and stress resilience.
4. Exposure to cold - Techniques such as cold showers or ice baths, which can increase physical and mental resilience.
5. Light therapy - The use of light with different wavelengths at different times of day to influence sleep patterns, mood and energy.

These methods are accessible, based on real science and can be customised without the risks associated with the radical genetic manipulations depicted in the series.

Conclusion

The series is entertaining to watch, especially for interested bio-hackers, but you shouldn't have too high expectations of the (current) feasibility of the concepts presented!

References: Cover picture by freepik