The Immunology Podcast

Ep. 88: “Cancer and Inflammatory Diseases” Featuring Dr. Roslyn Kemp

Sep 24, 2024
Dr. Roslyn Kemp, a Professor of Immunology at the University of Otago, dives into the fascinating world of T cells and their critical roles in fighting cancer and inflammation. She reveals how organoids can model inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's, enhancing our understanding of immune interactions. The conversation also touches on innovative approaches to cancer therapy, the effects of testosterone on the immune response in transgender men, and the importance of inquiry in science as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation.
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INSIGHT

IBD Complexity

  • Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are complex, involving host genetics, bacteria, immune response, and epithelium.
  • Modeling the entire system is crucial for understanding IBD pathogenesis, as individual components interact.
ANECDOTE

Patient-Specific IBD Model

  • Dr. Kemp's IBD model uses patient-derived crypts grown into organoids, combined with the patient's blood cells and bacteria.
  • This model replicates individual patient responses, highlighting the variability of Crohn's disease.
INSIGHT

Limitations and Future Directions

  • Current IBD models use heat-killed bacteria due to technical limitations.
  • Future research aims to incorporate live probiotics and patient-derived fecal bacteria for a more realistic model.
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