Ep. 87: “Applications of Immunology” Featuring Dr. Wayne Juang
Sep 10, 2024
auto_awesome
Dr. Wayne Juang, a Field Application Scientist at STEMCELL Technologies, shares his journey from academia to industry while tackling practical immunology challenges. He dives into genetic factors impacting tuberculosis and explores the role of sodium chloride in enhancing T cell functionality in tumors. The discussion highlights how dietary components, like oleic acid, can affect influenza severity. Juang also emphasizes the importance of bridging scientific knowledge with industry needs and shares insights on navigating career opportunities in immunology.
Recent studies reveal TNF's essential role in combating tuberculosis, particularly through its impact on macrophage function and immune response.
Fibrinogen's interaction with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein exacerbates inflammatory responses, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for COVID-19 management.
Higher sodium chloride levels in tumor microenvironments enhance T cell efficacy, suggesting new strategies for optimizing CAR T cell therapies.
Deep dives
The Role of TNF in Tuberculosis Susceptibility
Recent research highlights the critical role of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) in protecting against tuberculosis (TB) by investigating cases of individuals with inherited TNF deficiencies. A study documented two patients with a specific mutation causing non-functional TNF, leading to recurrent TB infections despite normal immune function otherwise. This discovery reveals a new pathway emphasizing TNF's significance in combating TB, as it plays an essential role in macrophage function and the resulting immune response. Understanding the genetic basis of TB susceptibility could pave the way for new therapeutic approaches targeting TNF-related mechanisms.
Fibrin's Role in COVID-19 Complications
The interaction between fibrinogen and the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 has been implicated in the thrombo-inflammatory complications observed in COVID-19 patients. Research indicates that fibrinogen can bind to the viral spike protein, leading to distorted clotting mechanisms and inflammatory responses that can contribute to neuroinflammation. Experimental models show that inhibiting this interaction enhances immune responses, such as improving natural killer cell activity in the lungs. Exploring therapies targeting fibrin interactions may offer new avenues for managing severe COVID-19 symptoms and long-term effects.
Impact of Sodium Chloride on T Cell Function
A recent study reveals that higher extracellular sodium chloride levels in tumor microenvironments enhance T cell metabolic fitness and cytotoxicity. An investigation into T cells exposed to saline conditions demonstrated improved T cell activation, increased calcium influx, and heightened metabolic activity, ultimately leading to more effective anti-tumor responses. In mouse models, sodium-conditioned T cells displayed superior kill rates when injected into tumors, representing a promising strategy for enhancing CAR T cell therapies. This finding encourages exploring extracellular sodium levels as a potential factor in optimizing immune cell function against cancers.
OLEIC Gene's Influence on Respiratory Viral Diseases
Elevated expression of the enzyme oleoyl-CoA hydrolase (OLA) is linked to severe cases of respiratory viral infections, particularly influenza and COVID-19. Analysis of clinical data showed that patients with severe symptoms exhibited higher OLA levels, which contributed to increased macrophage activation and inflammatory responses. Mouse models lacking the OLA enzyme demonstrated resistance to severe influenza, illuminating OLA's role in exacerbating immune responses to viral infections. Identifying OLA as a potential biomarker for severe respiratory disease progression could aid in early interventions for at-risk patients.
Insights from a Field Application Scientist
Dr. Wayne Huang, a Field Application Scientist at Stem Cell Technologies, discusses the unique blend of laboratory science and customer interaction inherent in his role. Engaging directly with customers allows him to troubleshoot scientific issues and enhance product applications while receiving invaluable feedback for future developments. His career trajectory, fueled by a passion for immunology and effective communication, showcases the importance of adaptability in transitioning from academia to industry. By integrating scientific expertise with business acumen gained through an MBA, Huang exemplifies how professionals can navigate the evolving landscape of scientific research.
Dr. Wayne Juang is a Field Application Scientist, Immunology at STEMCELL Technologies. In his current role, he works with researchers to help optimize and troubleshoot their experiments. He discusses his path to industry and his motivation to pursue an MBA.
TNF Mutations and Tuberculosis – Two relatives who lack working copies of the TNF gene experienced recurrent bouts of tuberculosis, but are unaffected by other pathogens.
, the world’s leading annual all-immunology meeting!
