Ep. 269: “iPSC Technology” Featuring Dr. Sebastian Diecke
Jun 11, 2024
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Dr. Sebastian Diecke discusses iPSC research, modeling diseases like Huntington's, and organoids from rhinoceroses. They explore advancements in iPSC technology for heart repair, CHIP biomarker significance, and turtle liver organoids. The podcast covers the challenges of balancing service and personal research in a lab and highlights the importance of collaboration in science.
IPS cell technology revolutionizes disease treatment and organ development.
Stem cell research contributes to conservation efforts by targeting endangered rhinoceros.
Challenges in disease modeling with iPSCs highlight the need for collaboration and optimizing reprogramming.
Deep dives
Introduction of Research Focus
Dr. Sebastian Dieke's research focuses on providing support and implementing new technologies for a variety of diseases in stem cell research. Starting as a PhD student at the Max Delberc Center, his interest in pluripotent stem cells led him to explore their potential for developing new treatments and understanding organ development. This interest was influenced by the limitations in working with human embryonic stem cells in Germany and the groundbreaking discoveries in IPS cell technology.
Establishing a Niche in IPS Cell Technology
In response to the challenges of working with human embryonic stem cells in Germany, Dr. Dieke established a niche in IPS cell technology, leveraging his experience and knowledge gained during his PhD studies. Recognizing the potential of IPS cells to revolutionize disease treatment and organ development, he aimed to implement new technologies and develop efficient and reproducible methods within the stem cell field.
Evolution of Research Direction from Basic Science to Translational Research
Dr. Dieke's journey from basic research on human pluripotent stem cells during his PhD to his current role as a technology platform leader and stem cell core director reflects a transition from fundamental investigations into pluripotent stem cells to translational applications. His engagement with IPS cell technology dating back to its early days in the mid-2000s underscores his commitment to advancing research and technology in the field to address various diseases and understand organ development.
Advancements in Stem Cell Research for Conservation Efforts
Stem cell research has made significant progress in leveraging pluripotent stem cells to address conservation challenges, such as targeting the white rhinoceros on the brink of extinction. Collaborative efforts have been focused on generating primordial germ cells and gametes, with successful advancements in generating true gametes from human pluripotent stem cells. The use of stem cell technology for white rhino conservation presents promising but challenging opportunities, with ongoing work towards translating these advancements into clinical applications for humans.
Applications and Challenges in Disease Modeling with iPSCs
The use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for disease modeling has shown promise, including generating iPSCs from Huntington's disease lines. However, challenges exist in accurately recapitulating disease mechanisms due to the complexities of multi-organ interactions and cellular maturity. Optimizing iPSC reprogramming for different species and tissue types remains a focus to enhance disease modeling capabilities. The importance of proper experimental design, quality control, and collaboration in research endeavors are emphasized to ensure successful outcomes in disease modeling and therapeutic development.
Dr. Sebastian Diecke is a Group Leader and Stem Cell Core Director at the Max Delbrück Center, where his research focuses on iPSCs and organoid models. He talks about the early days of iPSC research, developing organoids from endangered rhinoceros, and modeling Huntington's and other diseases.
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