Ep. 13: STAP Stem Cells and Blogging Featuring Dr. Paul Knoepfler
Feb 23, 2014
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Join Dr. Paul Knoepfler, an influential associate professor at UC Davis, as he dives into the controversial world of STAP stem cells. He sheds light on the challenges of replicating this groundbreaking method for generating pluripotent cells. The discussion also touches on the emotional connections in the animal kingdom and the groundbreaking implications of stem cells for autism and neural repair. With a mix of humor and critical insights, Dr. Knoepfler highlights the importance of transparency in stem cell research, all while educating audiences through his popular blog.
The STAP stem cell controversy underscores the critical importance of reproducibility in scientific research, as multiple labs failed to replicate initial findings.
The launch of the Stem Cell Podcast's new website aims to provide listeners with easier access to episodes and resources related to stem cell research.
Recent advancements in stem cell applications could revolutionize clinical practices, particularly in generating platelet-producing cells from induced pluripotent stem cells for transfusions.
Deep dives
The STAP Cells Controversy
The discussion centers around STAP (Stimulus-Triggered Acquisition of Pluripotency) cells, a breakthrough discovery claiming the ability to turn somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells using low pH. However, this finding has sparked substantial controversy in the field, as scientists struggle to reproduce the results of the initial studies. Despite initial enthusiasm, reports indicate that ten research labs have been unable to replicate the STAP cell methodology, raising doubts about the validity of the claims. This situation highlights the challenges and implications of high-profile scientific discoveries when reproducibility becomes a contentious issue.
New Stem Cell Podcast Website
The Stem Cell Podcast announces the launch of its new website, designed to provide listeners with easy access to all episodes and relevant resources. The site will feature snippets from episodes, headshots of guests, and information about upcoming conferences. Additionally, there will be curated highlights from significant papers discussed in the episodes, serving as a convenient reference for listeners. This resource aims to enhance engagement and provide valuable information to anyone interested in stem cell research.
Innovations in Stem Cell Therapy
Recent research has shown potential advancements in stem cell applications, such as deriving blood platelets from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). A study reported that specific growth factors and genetic modifications could enhance the differentiation of iPSCs into megakaryocytes, which then produce platelets. This finding is significant for clinical applications, especially since platelets are critical for various medical treatments and cannot be stored for long periods. The ability to generate these essential cells in a lab setting could revolutionize how clinicians manage patients requiring platelet transfusions.
Impact of the Endocannabinoid System
A study highlights the role of the endocannabinoid system in regulating food intake via cannabinoid receptors in the olfactory system. The research indicated that activating these receptors enhances odor detection in mice, suggesting a direct link between smell and appetite regulation. These findings contribute to the growing understanding of how the endocannabinoid system influences not only mood and behavior but also essential physiological responses like hunger. This insight may lead to new approaches in managing eating behaviors and weight gain in humans.
Recent Findings in Neuroscience
A recent meta-analysis revealed that, on average, men have larger brain volumes than women, raising questions about the biological implications of such differences. The study does highlight, however, that other brain regions might be larger in women compared to men, underscoring that the relationship between brain structure and function is complex. Furthermore, another study identified the role of lactate produced by astrocytes in the brain, which stimulates the production of norepinephrine, suggesting a broader function for lactate beyond energy metabolism. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms underlying brain activity and health.
Guest:
STAP stem cells were a new method of generating pluripotent stem cells published in a paper a few weeks ago. When it came out, scientists scratched their heads and wondered whether or not this new method could actually work and be reproducible. Well, while the jury is still out, it is not looking good and we bring on the show one of the most recognized voices of stem cell research, Dr. Paul Knoepfler to discuss the STAP stem cell theory. In addition to running a laboratory, Dr. Knoepfler maintains an amazingly active stem cell blog breaking all the latest stem cell news, and educating the public about stem cells.
Resources and Links
Knoepfler Lab Stem Cell Blog
Stem Cells: An Insiders Guide by Paul Knoepfler
Expandable Megakaryocyte Cell Lines Enable Clinically Applicable Generation of Platelets from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
The Endocannabinoid System Controls Food Intake via Olfactory Processes
Astrocyte-Derived Endothelin-1 Inhibits Remyelination through Notch Activation
Rejuvenation of the Muscle Stem Cell Population Restores Strength to Injured Aged Muscles
Nanog-Independent Reprogramming to iPSCs with Canonical Factors
Nanog Is Dispensable for the Generation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
In Vivo Direct Reprogramming of Reactive Glial Cells into Functional Neurons after Brain Injury and in an Alzheimer’s Disease Model
NPTX1 Regulates Neural Lineage Specification from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Photo Reference: Courtesy of Dr. Paul Knoepfler
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