Ep. 4: 3D Pancreas and ISSCR Featuring Dr. Carl P. Wonders
Oct 27, 2013
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Dr. Carl P. Wonders, the scientific affairs manager for the ISSCR, joins to discuss the highlights of the upcoming ISSCR meeting and the society's roles in promoting stem cell research. They dive into the transformative advances in creating 3D pancreas models for diabetes management and celebrate research milestones while addressing challenges like fraudulent publications. Hilarity ensues as the scientists share humorous anecdotes from their lab experiences, making for an engaging and informative conversation about the future of stem cell therapies.
Conferences like the ISSCR annual meeting foster crucial networking opportunities that enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing among scientists.
Investigations into open access journals highlight the urgent need for stricter editorial standards to safeguard scientific credibility against fraudulent research.
Groundbreaking studies on iPSC-derived neural cells indicate that using a patient's own cells can significantly improve graft integration in transplantation therapies.
Deep dives
Importance of Conferences in STEM Cell Research
Attending conferences like the New York Stem Cell Foundation's annual gathering plays a crucial role in advancing science, providing opportunities for networking and exposure to new research. The speakers at such events offer insights into the latest developments and breakthroughs in the field, enhancing the scientific community's understanding. Personal experiences shared by researchers highlight the value of informal interactions during these conferences, fostering collaboration and enhancing knowledge sharing. The vibrant discussions that occur outside formal presentations can lead to fresh ideas and potential partnerships in ongoing projects.
Concerns About Open Access Journal Integrity
Recent investigations into open access journals have raised alarm about cases of fraud, where fabricated research papers gained acceptance into numerous journals. This situation highlights the need for stricter editorial standards and increased scrutiny within some open access publications to maintain credibility. While open access journals are significant for democratizing scientific communication, incidents like this can tarnish their reputation, leading to a lack of trust from the scientific community. Researchers are therefore advised to remain vigilant and discerning regarding where they choose to publish their findings.
Advancements in Gene Regulation Research
A groundbreaking study from Fred Gage's lab has unveiled the intriguing role of LINE elements, often referred to as 'jumping genes,' in the human brain’s evolution and function. Researchers are exploring how these genetic elements contribute to brain development and their involvement in neurological diseases. The study's findings could provide valuable insights into human neurogenesis and the molecular underpinnings of various brain disorders, bridging gaps in our current understanding of genetics in neurobiology. This research emphasizes the complexity of gene interactions and their evolutionary significance in maintaining cognitive abilities.
Innovations in Transplantation Techniques
A promising study comparing autologous and allogeneic transplantations of iPSC-derived neural cells in non-human primates has demonstrated the superiority of using a patient's own cells. The results showed that using a patient's stem cells significantly reduced immune responses, which suggests better integration and survival rates for grafts. This advancement supports the ongoing pursuit of personalized medicine, particularly in treating conditions like Parkinson’s disease. The implications of this research could lead to safer and more effective transplantation therapies, minimizing the risks associated with immune rejection.
The Future of 3D Pancreas Development
Recent experiments have made strides towards creating a three-dimensional pancreas using pancreatic progenitor cells, a significant step forward for diabetes research. Researchers placed these cells in a 3D environment, which stimulated their growth and differentiation into a more complex structure that mimics the function of a natural pancreas. This innovative approach could enhance our understanding of pancreas development and potentially lead to viable treatments for those suffering from diabetes. By replicating natural pancreatic morphology in vitro, scientists aim to improve cell therapy options, making them more clinically relevant.
Guest:
In this episode, we welcome Dr. Carl P. Wonders, the scientific affairs manager for the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR). We discuss the annual meeting, science outreach, and long-term goals for the society. Our science round-up segment includes: RNAi pesticides, atomic clocks, corked wine and TCA, and review of an open-access journal investigation.
Photo Reference: Courtesy of Dr. Carl Wonders
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