The Stem Cell Podcast

Ep. 297: “Live at ISSCR 2025: Advancing Regenerative Medicine with CiPSCs” Featuring Drs. Hongkui Deng and Candice Liew

Jun 17, 2025
Guest
Candice Liew
Guest
Hongkui Deng
Dr. Hongkui Deng, Director of the Institute of Stem Cell Research at Peking University, and Dr. Candice Liew, Senior Scientist at Reprogenix Bioscience, share their groundbreaking work on chemically induced pluripotent stem cells (CiPSCs). They discuss a revolutionary patient trial using CiPSC-derived islets for type 1 diabetes and the challenges of immune tolerance. The pair also delve into advancements in chemical reprogramming and their potential to transform regenerative medicine, including innovative strategies for age reversal and enhanced disease treatment.
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INSIGHT

Chemical Reprogramming Mimics Nature

  • Chemical reprogramming mirrors natural regenerative processes of highly regenerative animals.
  • It bypasses genetic manipulation, using small molecules to functionally replace Yamanaka factors.
INSIGHT

Directed Differentiation Into Islets

  • Differentiating CiPSCs into islet cells involves mimicking natural pancreatic development stage-wise.
  • Robust differentiation protocols yielded functional beta cells capable of therapeutic effect in primate models.
INSIGHT

Novel Transplant Site Boosts Success

  • The anterior rectus sheath offers a transplant site akin to the kidney capsule, enhancing vascularization and cell survival.
  • Transplanting there improved functional outcomes compared to traditional liver portal vein sites.
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