Ep. 10: “Viral Pathogens” Featuring Dr. James Crowe
Aug 3, 2021
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Dr. James Crowe, Director of the Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, discusses COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against the Delta variant, T cell specificity in melanoma, overcoming PD-1 blockade resistance in lung cancer, and advancements in antibodies for viral pathogens. He also explores transitioning from academia to starting a biotech company and the importance of good manufacturing practices in biotech.
Antibodies are versatile tools for preventing, treating viral infections.
Consider manufacturability early in antibody discovery for clinical success.
Utilizing art in science communication enhances public understanding of immunology.
Deep dives
Dr. James Crowe's Expertise in Antibody Development
Dr. James Crowe from Vanderbilt discusses his research developing new therapeutics and vaccines against viruses, including COVID-19. Crowe emphasizes the importance of antibodies as flexible tools that can be used for prevention, post-exposure prophylaxis, and treatment of viral infections. His work focuses on accelerating the movement of antibodies from academic labs to clinical trials, ensuring their efficacy and manufacturability.
Challenges and Lessons in Biotech Startups
Dr. Crowe shares his experience transitioning to the biotech industry, highlighting the challenges faced in commercializing academic research. He discusses the differences between academia and startups, emphasizing the need for a focused approach in developing potential drug candidates for partnerships with industry. Crowe stresses the importance of considering manufacturing and developability early in the antibody discovery process.
Role of Non-Neutralizing Antibodies in Therapeutics
Crowe reflects on the significance of neutralizing antibodies in combating viral infections. He delves into the distinction between neutralizing and non-neutralizing antibodies in therapeutics, highlighting the potency and predictability of neutralizing antibodies for immune protection. Crowe emphasizes the need for manufacturability and developability assessments to optimize antibody candidates for clinical success.
Artistic Integration in Science Communication
Beyond his scientific endeavors, Dr. Crowe expresses a passion for the visual arts and their potential for scientific communication. He envisions using three-dimensional art to illustrate the complex structures and functions of antibodies, bridging art and science to enhance public understanding of immunology. Crowe's interest in art as a form of visual expression resonates with his work in understanding the intricate patterns and functions of biological entities.
Enhancing Public Engagement with Immunology
Dr. Crowe discusses the importance of utilizing art and visualization techniques to enhance public engagement with immunological concepts. By incorporating visuals and artistic representations, Crowe aims to demystify the intricate workings of antibodies and immunology, making complex scientific ideas more accessible and engaging to a broader audience. Through this approach, he seeks to foster a greater appreciation and understanding of the immune system among the general public.
Dr. James Crowe is the Director of the Vanderbilt Vaccine Center. Their group uses a very broad array of techniques including molecular and cellular biology, state-of-the-art imaging and flow cytometry, bioinformatics, and bioengineering approaches to attack the scientific problems that are of interest to them: major human pathogens.
Immune Cell Mechanisms in Colitis – Researchers identified an inverse correlation between inflammatory bowel disease severity and Cox2 expression, uncovering an active immune pathway that may be targeted to reduce inflammation.
T Cell Specificity in Melanoma – Scientists took an in-depth look at the relationship between T cell receptors and T cell phenotypes in patient-derived melanoma cell lines.
