Ep. 25: “Immunology and Industry” Featuring Drs. Andy Kokaji and Hannah Lee
Mar 15, 2022
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Dr. Andy Kokaji and Dr. Hannah Lee from STEMCELL Technologies discuss their career paths and product development processes. They touch on topics like mRNA boosters, B cell suppression in maternal tolerance, and using data analysis tools for predicting disease outcomes. The podcast also covers Stem Cell Technologies, transitioning from academia to industry, and the growth of the company in the immunology industry.
Vaccine boosters enhance protective antibody levels against COVID-19 variants without worsening side effects.
Unique glycan decorations on trophoblast-derived antigens engage immunosuppressive receptors on B cells, promoting maternal immune tolerance towards the fetus.
Innovative multi-scale fate technology maps immune responses in COVID-19 patients, revealing unique cell populations associated with mortality.
Deep dives
Development of COVID-19 Boosters
The podcast episode discusses a study focusing on the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccine boosters. The research, published in Nature Medicine, analyzes the immune response to the mRNA-1273 (Moderna) vaccine booster in an open-label phase two trial. The study reveals that antibody levels significantly increase 20 days after the booster, surpassing the levels after the primary series. It highlights that boosters provide enhanced protective antibody levels, especially against the Delta variant, without causing worsening side effects. The trial validates the long-term efficacy of boosters and emphasizes their ability to enhance immunity potential from a third antigen exposure.
Maternal Fetal Tolerance Mechanisms
The episode explores a study investigating fetal maternal tolerance mechanisms, particularly focusing on glycan-mediated B-cell suppression. Published in Nature, the research delves into how fetuses, considered foreign cells, are not rejected by maternal immune systems in utero. The study identifies how antigens expressed by trophoblasts, placental cells in contact with maternal blood, remain unresponsive to maternal T cells despite presenting antigens. Through mouse models, the study reveals how unique glycan decorations on trophoblast-derived antigens engage immunosuppressive receptors on B cells, contributing to maternal immune tolerance towards the fetus. The findings suggest potential implications for understanding fetal-maternal tolerance in humans and shed light on novel mechanisms safeguarding fetal development.
Innovative Cell Mapping Technology for COVID-19 Research
The podcast episode introduces a study unveiling a novel multi-scale fate technology identifying diverse immune signatures in COVID-19. Published in Nature Biotechnology, the research employs innovative analytical tools to map multimodal immune responses in COVID-19 patients, offering new insights into immune dynamics during infection. The technology allows for nuanced clustering and analysis of immune cell populations, offering a comprehensive view of cellular interactions and responses to COVID-19. Through advanced computational methodologies, the study uncovers unique cell populations associated with mortality in COVID-19 patients, providing new perspectives on immune correlates of disease severity. The research underscores the utility of cutting-edge technologies in unraveling complex immune landscapes and their implications for understanding COVID-19 pathogenesis.
Tertiary Lymphoid Structures and Tumor Immune Response
The episode presents a study investigating tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) within tumors and their impact on anti-tumor immune responses. Published in Immunology, the research explores the role of TLSs in promoting anti-tumor immune reactions by fostering B-cell maturation and plasma cell differentiation within tumor microenvironments. By analyzing TLS-associated B cells, the study reveals clonal expansion and maturation of B-cell populations, leading to the production of tumor-specific antibodies. The findings highlight how plasma cells exit TLSs to distribute antibodies targeting tumor antigens, influencing macrophage-mediated tumor cell clearance. The study provides novel insights into the immune dynamics within TLSs and their impact on tumor immunity, offering potential therapeutic avenues for enhancing anti-tumor responses.
Evolution and Impact of Stem Cell Technologies
The podcast episode reflects on the evolution and impact of Stem Cell Technologies, showcasing the company's transformation into a key player in the life sciences industry. Featuring insights from senior directors Andy Kocagie and Hannah Lee, the discussion delves into Stem Cell Technologies' journey from a Canadian biotech company to a global leader in developing innovative tools in cell biology, immunology, and disease research. The conversation highlights significant milestones, such as pioneering products like easy-to-use isolation kits and advanced cell separation instruments, illustrating the company's commitment to advancing scientific research worldwide. Moreover, the guests share personal experiences and valuable advice on navigating career opportunities and embracing innovation within the dynamic field of life sciences.
Dr. Andy Kokaji is a Senior Director of Immunology, and Dr. Hannah Lee is a Senior Director of Product Management, at STEMCELL Technologies. They discuss their career paths and how they develop and commercialize products to support scientists worldwide.
mRNA Boosters Increase Antibodies but Not Side Effects – A Moderna booster vaccine elicited neutralizing titers that were statistically significantly higher than the peak titers detected after the primary vaccination series.
B Cells in Unexpected Places – Researchers showed that glycan-mediated B cell suppression plays a key role in establishing fetomaternal tolerance in mice.
