Viruses: More Friends Than Foes (Revised Edition)

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Influenza, AIDS, and Ebola: Viruses are typically seen as pathogens, but renowned virologist and cancer researcher Karin Moelling reveals a surprising perspective on these entities. Viruses are everywhere—in oceans, the environment, animals, plants, bacteria, and even within our bodies and genomes. They influence weather patterns, may help control obesity, and can be harnessed against multi-resistant bacteria. The story of viruses dates back over 3.5 billion years, predating cells themselves, marking them as a superpower of life. There are more viruses on Earth than stars in the sky, with some being ancient and others, like giant viruses, recently discovered in permafrost after 30,000 years. The author delves into a new understanding of viruses, drawing from her own research. She poses intriguing questions: Could viruses be our oldest ancestors? Did they 'invent' social behavior or contribute to the brilliance of figures like Mozart and Einstein, or even lead to cancer? While they may aid in cancer treatment, Moelling distinguishes between established facts and her visionary ideas. This book is accessible to a general audience, aiming to provoke thought and inspire future scientists to explore this fascinating field.