In this episode we introduce you to a part of our bodies that was invisible to Western scientists until about five years ago; it’s called “the interstitium,” a vast network of fluid channels inside the tissues around our organs that scientists have just begun to see, name, and understand. Along the way we look at how new technologies rub up against long-standing beliefs, and how millions of scientists and doctors failed to see what was right in front (and inside!) of their noses. We also find out how mapping the anatomy of this hidden infrastructure may help solve one of the fundamental mysteries of cancer, and perhaps provide a bridge between ancient and modern medicine.

Special thanks to Aaron Wickenden, Jessica Clark, Mara Zepeda, Darryl Holliday, Dr. Amy Chang, Kate Sassoon, Guy Huntley, John Jacobson, Scotty G, and the Village Zendo

EPISODE CREDITS 

Reported by – Lulu Miller and Jenn Brandel
Produced by – Matt Kielty
with help from – Ekedi Fausther-Keeys
with mixing help from – Arianne Wack
Fact-checking by – Natalie Middleton
and Edited by  – Alex Neason