Ep. 19: Saratoga Stem Cell Conference Review and 5 Interviews
May 26, 2014
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Dive into the fascinating world of stem cell research! Discover the largest sperm ever found, and learn why some stem cells aren't making hearts. Innovative heart-on-a-chip technology steals the spotlight, while researchers unveil a new element on the periodic table. Delve into the intriguing realm of iPSCs from schizophrenia patients. And don’t miss the humorous rant about bathroom air fresheners that wraps up this lively discussion!
The Next Gen Stem Cell Conference facilitated meaningful networking among scientists, fostering discussions on technical challenges and advancements in stem cell research.
Interviews with five conference speakers provided diverse insights into current stem cell applications, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and relevance of ongoing research.
Recent scientific literature revealed significant findings, including the controversial role of C-Kit positive cells in cardiac regeneration, challenging established beliefs in the field.
Deep dives
Saratoga Stem Cell Conference Experience
The episode highlights the recent Next Gen Stem Cell Conference held in Saratoga Springs, which provided an engaging environment for attendees. The hosts enjoyed beautiful weather and shared anecdotes about their time in the town, including a memorable meal at Hattie's, known for its exceptional fried chicken. The event facilitated several casual interactions among scientists and attendees, fostering a community atmosphere that allowed for open discussions about technical challenges in research. Overall, the conference was characterized by its informative sessions and the opportunity to network in a relaxed setting.
Innovative Interviews from the Conference
Instead of a traditional guest interview, the episode features short interviews with five speakers from the conference, each discussing their work and insights. This format provides listeners with varied perspectives on advancements in stem cell research and the current state of the field. Speakers included researchers from diverse areas, such as immunodeficiencies, cardiomyocyte differentiation, and the application of stem cells in treating diseases. This approach not only showcases the relevance of stem cell research but also emphasizes the collaborative spirit of the conference.
Scientific Insights and Recent Discoveries
The hosts engage in a literature roundup, discussing recent scientific findings related to stem cells and other fields. Topics include a study that discovered the oldest fossilized sperm, which was found preserved in bat feces and is over 17 million years old. Another significant finding discussed was the role of the Wnt signaling pathway in colon cancer cells, highlighting how blocking this pathway could reduce tumor size. These discussions underline the ongoing advancements in biological research and the importance of staying updated with scientific literature.
Controversies in Stem Cell Research
A significant controversy within the stem cell community is addressed, specifically concerning the validity of C-Kit positive cells in cardiac regeneration. A recent study argues that these stem cells may not contribute to cardiomyocyte production in the heart as previously believed, challenging long-standing assumptions in the field. This revelation has sparked debate among researchers, highlighting the need for further investigation and the importance of rigorous methodological approaches in stem cell studies. The discussion emphasizes the dynamic nature of scientific research, where new findings can shift prevailing paradigms.
Diverse Applications of Stem Cell Technology
Various applications and ongoing projects using stem cells are highlighted throughout the episode, illustrating the technology's versatility. For instance, researchers explore using pluripotent stem cells to model diseases, elucidate cardiac functionality, and generate skin for therapeutic purposes. There is particular excitement around generating new heart cells from stem cells, which could revolutionize treatments for heart disease. The mention of making functional tissues from stem cells reflects the potential of regenerative medicine to address significant health challenges, showcasing a hopeful future for practical applications in patient care.
The Stem Cell Podcast HostsDr. Fasano and Dr. Ganat
On this episode we review the Next Gen Stem Cell Conference from earlier in the month. During the conference we interviewed 5 stem cell scientists live and put them all together for this show. In addition to these great guests, we review the literature as always. Topics include the biggest sperm ever, C-kit+ stem cells don't make heart, heart on a chip technology, a new element on the periodic table, and iPSCs from schizophrenia patients. After that, we end with a rant about bathroom air fresheners!
Resources, Links and Research Papers Mentioned In This Session Include:
World's Oldest Sperm Discovered: 17-Million-Year-Old Cell Is Longer Than Its Creator
Researchers Identify Link Between Colon Cancer And Metabolism
In Vivo Modulation Of Hypoxia-Inducible Signaling By Topographical Helix Mimetics.
Heart Cells Have 'Preteen' Growth Spurt
An Antidepressant Decreases CSF Aβ Production in Healthy Individuals and in Transgenic AD Mice
New Super-Heavy Element 117 Confirmed By Scientists
Autism-Related Protein Shown to Play Vital Role in Addiction
Chd5 Orchestrates Chromatin Remodelling During Sperm Development
‘Heart Disease-On-A-Chip’
Syphilis Made A Big Comeback In 2013, CDC Warns
Life Extension Factor Klotho Enhances Cognition
Meet HD 162826, The Sister Star Of Our Sun
Novel Antioxidant Makes Old Arteries Seem Young Again, Study Shows
Scripps Research Institute Scientists Create First Living Organism that Transmits Added Letters in DNA 'Alphabet'
Model Universe Recreates Evolution Of The Cosmos
Long-Snouted Tyrannosaur Unearthed
Vampire's Delight? Young Blood Recharges Brains of Old
Fate of iPSCs Derived from Azoospermic and Fertile Men following Xenotransplantation to Murine Seminiferous Tubules
Hope For Aging Brains, Skeletal Muscle
Stem Cell Therapy Saves Eyesight Of Fountain Valley Mother
c-kit+ Cells Minimally Contribute Cardiomyocytes To The Heart
Study Questions Use Of Stem Cells To Repair Heart
Modeling The Mitochondrial Cardiomyopathy Of Barth Syndrome With Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell And Heart-On-Chip Technologies
Phenotypic Differences In Hipsc Npcs Derived From Patients With Schizophrenia.
Recombinase-Mediated Reprogramming and Dystrophin Gene Addition in mdx Mouse Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
U.S. Biomedical Research 'Unsustainable,' Prominent Researchers Warn
Rescuing US Biomedical Research From Its Systemic Flaws
We are working on a way to categorize all of the research papers we mention on the show and provide, possibly even provide audio summaries. Enter in your name and e-mail address below, and we will notify you of when this feature is available.
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