The Stem Cell Podcast

Dr. Margaret Goodell, a leader in regenerative medicine and director at Baylor College, shares her groundbreaking research on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and aging. She discusses her discovery of a unique side population of HSCs and explores the implications of DNMT3A mutations. The conversation dives into clonal hematopoiesis and its relationship with cardiovascular diseases. Goodell also highlights Houston's vibrant research environment, showcasing innovative advancements in stem cell therapies for conditions like Parkinson's and cardiac fibrosis.

Join Dr. Sarah Teichmann, a leading stem cell researcher at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, as she dives into the fascinating world of cell plasticity and the Human Cell Atlas project. Discover how she merges computational techniques with traditional biology and the importance of interdisciplinary teams in advancing research. She also highlights breakthroughs in stem cell therapy for diseases like Parkinson's and innovative organoid technologies. Her insights promise to illuminate the future of personalized medicine!

Professor Hank Greely, a leading bioethics expert at Stanford University, shares insights on his intriguing journey into the field of biomedical ethics. He delves into the ethical implications surrounding organoids and embryo models, raising questions about future reproductive technologies like gametogenesis and ectogenesis. Greely emphasizes the necessity of ethical frameworks as scientific advancements challenge traditional views on genetics and decision-making in reproduction, highlighting the balance between innovation and moral responsibility in modern medicine.

Dr. Scott Younger, Director of Disease Gene Engineering at Children’s Mercy Hospital, dives into the world of functional precision medicine. He reveals how personalized antisense oligonucleotides can reverse disease phenotypes in organoid models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Younger emphasizes the importance of his lab's connections to the rare disease community, fostering collaboration with clinicians. The discussion highlights innovative approaches to personalized therapies, addressing the challenges of accessibility and costs in advanced healthcare.

Dr. Valentina Greco is the President of the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR), and Professor of Genetics and Co-Chair of the Status of Women in Medicine at Yale University. Dr. Kathryn Cheah is an ISSCR Program Committee Co-Chair and Emeritus Professor and Chair of Biochemistry at Hong Kong University. Dr. Eugenia Piddini is also an ISSCR Program Committee Co-Chair and Professorial Research Fellow in Cell Biology and School Research Director at the University of Bristol. They talk about the upcoming ISSCR 2025 meeting in Hong Kong from June 11-14, 2025. They discuss the meeting's global focus, program highlights, opportunities for early-career researchers, and what they're looking forward to in Hong Kong.

Dr. Robert Zweigerdt, a Principal Investigator at Hannover Medical School, revolutionizes heart research through his work on cardiac differentiation and heart-forming organoids. He explains how these organoids mirror heart development and discusses their potential for regenerative medicine. The conversation also touches on the significance of mentorship and international collaboration in advancing stem cell science, alongside groundbreaking advancements related to mouse embryo modeling and innovative wound healing strategies.

Dr. Giorgia Quadrato, an Assistant Professor at USC, dives into her groundbreaking work on cerebellar organoids. She shares insights on generating these organoids with functional Purkinje cells and discusses the development of a transcriptomic atlas for neural organoids. The conversation sheds light on the advancements and challenges in California's stem cell research landscape. Additionally, Quadrato highlights the potential of organoids in personalized medicine and tumor modeling, emphasizing the crucial role of collaboration and mentorship in scientific progress.

Dr. Andrew Elefanty and Dr. Elizabeth Ng, both leading researchers at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, dive into the captivating world of blood development. They discuss their groundbreaking study on deriving and transplanting hematopoietic stem cells. The duo shares insights on innovative tools for customizing blood stem cells and the importance of collaboration in advancing research. They also highlight the challenges of immune responses in cellular therapies and the potential of engineered tissues for treating blood-related diseases.

Dr. Marius Wernig, a renowned Professor at Stanford University, dives into his pioneering work on reprogramming neuronal cells and developing therapies for brain and skin diseases. He shares insights on the evolution of induced pluripotent stem cells and the innovations in neurological disease modeling. The conversation touches on challenges in neuron transplantation and the therapeutic potential of cell therapy for neurodegenerative conditions. Outside the lab, Wernig reveals his musical talents, showcasing a creative balance between science and art.

Dr. Jonathan Thomas, President and CEO of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM), shares his insights on funding vital stem cell research. He discusses the importance of diversity in clinical trials to make treatments accessible. JT reflects on CIRM's 20-year journey in advancing research and training future scientists. The conversation also dives into balancing support between basic and clinical research, along with CIRM's strategic shift post-Proposition 14 to navigate the evolving landscape of regenerative medicine.