Guest: Dr. Milica Radisic is a Professor and Canada Research Chair at the University of Toronto. Her lab uses organ-on-a-chip engineering to mimic physiology of the heart, kidney, and vasculature for the purpose of modeling human disease and discovering more effective drugs. In this episode, she talks about the challenges of studying the heart and strategies to mature cardiomyocytes. She also discusses using macrophages to vascularize heart-on-a-chip platforms and enhance cardiac tissue function, sustainability considerations for microfluidic chips, and how these disease models can reduce the use of lab animals. Finally, she talks about starting a company to commercialize her lab’s cardiac chip platform, the landscape for women entrepreneurs, and advice from her mentor, Dr. Bob Langer. Featured Products and Resources: Webinar: Modeling Arrhythmias Using hPSC-Derived Cardiomyocytes and Tracking Their Excitability Differentiate hPSCs using STEMdiff™ Ventricular Cardiomyocyte Differentiation Kit. The Stem Cell Science Round Up Human Fetal Pancreas Development – A human fetal tripotent stem/progenitor cell can expand in vitro and can generate all three pancreatic cell lineages. Hematopoiesis over the Human Lifespan – Researchers profiled individual transcriptome states of human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells spanning gestation, maturation, and aging. Intestinal Homeostasis – Intestinal stem cell PIEZO channels sense changes in stiffness and stretching, which controls stem cell behavior. Cancer Risk in Aging – Aging of stem cells reduces their potential for tumorigenesis. Image courtesy of Dr. Milica Radisic Subscribe to our newsletter! Never miss updates about new episodes. Subscribe

Dr. Cynthia Dunbar, a distinguished investigator at the NIH, dives into the fascinating world of hematopoiesis and aging, using macaques as an innovative model. She discusses groundbreaking research on transplanting iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, alongside the ethical considerations of using primate models. The unique NIH environment fosters collaboration in stem cell research, enhancing both clinical applications and personalized medicine. Outside the lab, Cindy's musical talents add a delightful twist to her scientific journey.

Dr. Mansi Srivastava, a Professor at Harvard and Curator at the Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology, dives into the fascinating world of whole-body regeneration using the three-banded panther worm. She reveals how her lab traces adult stem cell lineages and the worm's remarkable ability to regrow organs and even brains. The discussion highlights the importance of diverse model organisms in regenerative medicine and her outreach initiatives aimed at inspiring young scientists. Prepare for a journey through evolution, regeneration, and the future of science communication!

Dr. Bruna Paulsen, a leader in therapeutic development at Gameto, and Dr. Dina Radenkovic, co-founder and CEO, dive into revolutionary approaches to women's reproductive health. They discuss Fertilo, a groundbreaking platform that uses ovarian support cells to enhance IVF and egg freezing processes. The conversation also touches on the ethical dimensions of fertility treatments and the importance of addressing diverse patient needs. Their insights illuminate the future of assisted reproduction and the transformative potential of stem cell technology.

Dr. Meritxell Huch, Scientific Director at the Max Planck Institute, dives into her research on liver and pancreas organoid models. She details innovative co-culture techniques for liver mesenchyme and ductal cells. The conversation highlights the complexities of liver regeneration, including the potential of using Yamanaka factors for neuroprotection. Huch shares her inspiring journey across Europe, showcasing the importance of passion and support in scientific pursuits. A blend of groundbreaking science and personal determination makes for a captivating discussion.

Dr. Samantha Morris, an Associate Professor at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, dives into the fascinating world of gene regulatory networks and cell identity. She shares her groundbreaking work on manipulating genetic pathways and measuring cell fate transitions. The discussion highlights the complexities of direct reprogramming and innovative tools like CellNet. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of collaboration in stem cell research and reflects on the evolving landscape of funding and mentorship in the scientific community.

Dr. Alfonso Martinez Arias, a CREA Research Professor at Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, shares his journey in developmental biology. He delves into the fascinating world of gastruloids, innovative embryo-like structures, and their potential in organ model development. The discussion also covers resilient tuft cells in the human intestine and their surprising regenerative abilities. Additionally, cutting-edge insights on aging neural stem cells and the role of CRISPR in enhancing their function spark intrigue, emphasizing the future of regenerative health.

Dr. Behzad Yeganeh, an Associate Scientist at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, dives into the complexities of lung development and neonatal lung diseases. He shares fascinating insights into the mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis, vital for understanding lung health. The conversation spans the challenges of premature lung disease and innovative approaches such as using mesenchymal stem cells for therapy. Yeganeh's journey from cancer biology to regenerative medicine reveals a promising path for improving neonatal care.

Dr. Dmitriy Sheyn, an Associate Professor at Cedars-Sinai, specializes in developing stem cell therapies for musculoskeletal disorders. He delves into innovative modeling of disc degeneration and tendon injuries. The conversation highlights his lab’s groundbreaking work on tendon differentiation and insights into low back pain mechanisms. By discussing the urgent need for stem cell solutions for orthopedic conditions, Dr. Sheyn offers a compelling vision for the future of regenerative medicine and the potential impact on patient care.

Dr. Ludovic Vallier, a leading expert in stem cells from the Berlin Institute of Health, shares groundbreaking insights into liver organogenesis. He discusses modeling non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and how his lab transitioned to researching SARS-CoV-2 during the pandemic. Vallier explains the potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for liver regeneration after injury. The conversation also sheds light on the innovative therapies being developed for liver diseases and the collaboration happening within Germany's scientific community.