The Stem Cell Podcast

Guest: Dr. Hans Clevers is a Professor of Molecular Genetics and Distinguished Group Leader at the University of Utrecht. In this episode, he discusses snake gut and lung organoids, transitioning from academia to industry, and the challenges and complexities of creating a cell therapy. (44:26) Featured Products and Resources: Registration and abstracts are open for the ISSCR 2026 annual meeting. Receive an offer to try IntestiCult in your lab. The Stem Cell Science Round Up Computers Made From Human Brain Cells – Researchers have shown that structured neuronal firing sequences appear in spontaneous activity of human and murine brain organoids. (2:37) Organoids Replicate Vascular Pathology – Scientists have developed a blood vessel organoid model from Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome-mutant hESCs. (12:01) Effects of Spaceflight on Stem Cells – Analyses of nine astronauts before, during, and after three short-duration International Space Station missions shows space-associated stem cell hallmarks of aging and resilience. (21:14) The Role of Lysosomes in HSC Aging – Reversing lysosomal dysfunction restores youthful state in aged hematopoietic stem cells. (33:25) Photo Reference: Courtesy of Hans Clevers Subscribe to our newsletter! Never miss updates about new episodes. Subscribe

Dr. Thomas Vierbuchen, an Assistant Professor at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, explores the intricacies of neural development through pluripotent stem cells. He discusses the advantages of 2D cultures versus complex organoids for research reproducibility. Vierbuchen recounts the surprising journey of direct reprogramming from fibroblasts to neurons and the challenges faced in translating these techniques to human cells. He also highlights the importance of understanding embryogenesis and the intriguing question of how organs determine their size.

Dr. Sumru Bayin, a Group Leader at the Gurdon Institute, dives into the fascinating world of regeneration in the neonatal cerebellum. She discusses her groundbreaking research on Bergmann glia plasticity and how it impacts neuronal regeneration post-injury. Bayin also highlights the challenges in reactivating stem cell programs in adults and the innovative use of modified RNAs to improve neuronal proliferation while mitigating tumor risks. Her work, influenced by her training, emphasizes the potential for therapeutic advances in regenerative medicine.

Dr. Juan Melero-Martin, an Associate Professor and Endowed Chair in Cardiac Surgery at Boston Children's Hospital, dives into vascular biology and regenerative medicine. He discusses groundbreaking findings on mitochondrial transfer from MSCs to endothelial cells and its role in enhancing cell function. Juan explains strategies for generating vascular organoids and the importance of transcription factors like ETV2 in differentiating endothelial cells. He also reflects on mentorship in Boston's vibrant research community and the excitement surrounding advancements in cell therapies.

Dr. Carole LaBonne, the Erastus Otis Haven Professor at Northwestern University, specializes in neural crest stem cells and their evolutionary significance. She discusses how these cells contribute to vertebrate traits and their potential in treating conditions like Hirschsprung disease. Carole emphasizes the importance of basic science funding for clinical progress and shares insights on overcoming barriers in scientific inquiry. Additionally, she stresses the balance between family and career, advocating for a more humanized approach to science.

Dr. Paul Tesar, Director of the Institute for Glial Sciences at Case Western Reserve University, dives into his research on oligodendrocyte maturation and environmental chemicals that hinder glial development. He discusses the importance of mentorship in shaping future scientists and the creation of Convelo, a company aimed at translating lab discoveries into therapies. Tesar also shares insights on balancing high-throughput screens to foster innovation, all while emphasizing his dedication to the community and collaborative opportunities at his institution.

Dr. Lars Velten, a Group Leader at the Centre for Genomic Regulation in Barcelona, delves into intriguing research on gene regulation and hematopoiesis. He discusses the role of cell-state-specific enhancers and innovative lineage tracing techniques that reveal insights into blood aging. Velten also explores the integration of generative AI with traditional lab methods, emphasizing the importance of taking risks in basic research. Plus, he shares his perspective on the potential applications of his work beyond hematopoiesis.

Dr. Alice Soragni, an Associate Professor at UCLA, delves into her groundbreaking research on patient-derived organoids and their potential in drug screening. She shares insights on her transition from structural biology to focus on protein aggregation in rare diseases. The discussion also touches on innovative advancements in organoid technology for personalized cancer treatment and the role of social media in enhancing scientific communication. Soragni highlights the importance of collaboration in driving impactful research.

Discover the fascinating world of kidney organoids and their potential in regenerative medicine. Dr. Zhongwei Li sheds light on nephron progenitor cells and drug discovery for polycystic kidney disease. The podcast delves into innovative embryo models developed from pluripotent stem cells without transgenes, revolutionizing our understanding of early development. Explore groundbreaking hypoimmune CAR T cell therapies that promise to change cancer treatment and learn about efforts to reconstruct pancreatic islet organoids for diabetes management.

Dr. Mark Hatley, a leading researcher in pediatric oncology from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, dives deep into the genetic underpinnings of childhood cancers such as rhabdomyosarcoma. He unpacks how the PAX3-FOXO1 and DICER1 genes contribute to tumor formation. The discussion highlights the critical shift from animal models to human systems in cancer research, providing fresh insights into potential treatments. Hatley emphasizes the importance of understanding developmental biology to uncover innovative strategies for combating pediatric cancer.