Ep. 27: MS and Stem Cells Featuring Dr. Valentina Fossati
Sep 16, 2014
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Dr. Valentina Fossati, a prominent researcher at the New York Stem Cell Foundation, discusses her innovative work with iPSCs to generate oligodendrocytes for multiple sclerosis treatment. She delves into the complexities of MS, highlighting the significance of myelin and recent breakthroughs in regenerating myelin in models, like the shiverer mouse. The conversation balances scientific advancements with personal anecdotes, including her experiences as a new parent, blending the challenges of academia with life at home while advocating for thoughtful public health policies.
The podcast highlights the use of induced pluripotent stem cells to generate oligodendrocytes to potentially treat progressive multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Valentina Fossati emphasizes the importance of understanding myelination processes and immune interactions in developing effective MS therapies.
Future research aims to create personalized stem cell treatments, potentially transforming MS management through tailored therapeutic solutions.
Deep dives
Introduction to MS and Stem Cells
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is discussed as a significant health topic, emphasizing its prevalence and complexity. The nature of MS involves attacks on the myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers, leading to neurological symptoms. The podcast introduces Dr. Valentina Fasati, who focuses on utilizing stem cell technology to understand and potentially treat MS. This highlights the intersection of stem cell research and neurological conditions, particularly the challenge of addressing progressive forms of MS.
Emerging Research and Advances
Dr. Fasati's recent work examines using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from patients with progressive MS to generate oligodendrocytes, crucial cells for myelination. The unique approach aims to understand whether these patient-derived cells have functional abilities similar to those from healthy individuals. The research shows promise in creating a sufficient supply of functional oligodendrocytes that can be tested for their capacity to repair myelin. This innovation seeks to address a significant gap in treating the progressive aspects of MS.
The Mechanisms of Myelination
The podcast delves into the mechanisms by which oligodendrocytes myelinate nerve fibers and how this process is altered in MS. Oligodendrocytes wrap around axons to insulate them, facilitating faster electrical signaling within the nervous system. Understanding this process is crucial as MS involves the immune system attacking these myelinating cells, leading to cognitive and physical impairments. The discussion emphasizes that effective treatments will require a deep understanding of both neurobiology and immunology.
Challenges in MS Research
The podcast underscores the multifaceted challenges in researching and treating MS, particularly the complexities of the disease's progression. Those affected by MS can experience varying degrees of symptom severity and progression rates, complicating treatment approaches. Moreover, the inflammation associated with MS introduces additional complications that can hinder effective therapy development. This emphasizes the need for ongoing research that not only addresses symptoms but also targets the underlying disease mechanisms.
Future Directions and Potential
Looking forward, the discussion pivots on the future of stem cell therapies for MS and the potential impact of ongoing research. The exploration of patient-specific stem cell treatments could open avenues for personalized medicine, allowing tailored therapies for individuals with MS. Dr. Fasati's work aims to contribute significantly to understanding and possibly reversing the damage done by MS, planting the seeds for future clinical applications. The potential for stem cells to lead to breakthroughs in MS treatment highlights the importance of continued investment in this field of research.
Guest:
Dr. Valentina Fossati from the New York Stem Cell Foundation, talks about her recent publication using iPSCs to generate the oligodendrocytes, the cells that myelinate neurons and its implications for multiple sclerosis.
Resources and Links
Vaccines—Calling the Shots
Study Finds Blood Type and Memory Loss Link
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UV Light Can Turn Gene Into Source of Skin Cancers, Researchers Find
UCLA Biologists Delay The Aging Process By ‘Remote Control’
Eating Habits, Body Fat Related To Differences In Brain Chemistry
Can Sleep Loss Affect Your Brain Size?
First Neanderthal Rock Engraving Found in Gibraltar
Composition of Earth’s mantle revisited thanks to research at Argonne’s Advanced Photon Source
Marijuana Compound May Offer Treatment For Alzheimer’s Disease, USF Preclinical Study Finds
Neuroscientists Reverse Memories’ Emotional Associations
Scripps Research Institute Scientists Link Alcohol-Dependence Gene to Neurotransmitter
Estrogens Stimulate Serotonin Neurons to Inhibit Binge-Like Eating In Mice
Physically Fit Kids Have Beefier Brain White Matter Than Their Less-Fit Peers
Sexually Dimorphic RB Inactivation Underlies Mesenchymal Glioblastoma Prevalence in Males
FDA-Approved Drug Restores Hair in Patients with Alopecia Areata
Obituary: Yoshiki Sasai 1962–2014
Nature Reviewers Not Persuaded by Initial STAP Stem Cell Papers
Japanese Woman Is First Recipient of Next-Generation Stem Cells
Resetting Transcription Factor Control Circuitry toward Ground-State Pluripotency in Human
Diabetes Researchers Find Faster Way to Create Insulin-Producing Cells
Stem Cells Help Researchers Understand How Schizophrenic Brains Function
The Developmental Potential of iPSCs Is Greatly Influenced by Reprogramming Factor Selection
Conversion of Human Fibroblasts into Monocyte-Like Progenitor Cells
Adult Hepatocytes Are Generated by Self-Duplication Rather than Stem Cell Differentiation
Chemical Conversion of Human Fibroblasts into Functional Schwann Cells
Efficient Generation of Myelinating Oligodendrocytes from Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis Patients by Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Photo Reference: Courtesy of Dr. Valentina Fossati
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