Mary Roach On Our Remarkable, Replaceable Bodies

This Fresh Air episode features an interview with Mary Roach, author of "Replaceable You," discussing the latest advancements and historical attempts in replacing body parts. Roach shares insights on topics ranging from elective amputations and phantom limb pain treatments to the use of pig organs for transplants and the future of growing human organs in animals. The conversation also explores regenerative medicine, including the use of pluripotent cells and 3D printing of muscle tissue, as well as ethical considerations and funding challenges in medical research. Additionally, Roach recounts her personal experiences and research into tissue donation and hair transplants, offering a blend of scientific information and humorous anecdotes. The episode concludes with a preview of Terry Gross's interview on the "Talk Easy" podcast, reflecting on her career and personal experiences.