The Stem Cell Podcast

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Shuibing Chen, a stem cell biologist at Weill Cornell Medical College, dives into cutting-edge research on diabetes. She discusses her use of CRISPR and human stem cells to model diabetes, focusing on gene-specific drug candidates. Chen reveals her team's findings on how specific gene knockouts impact insulin secretion and beta cell function. She also shares insights from a drug screen identifying an FDA-approved compound that could help rescue beta cell dysfunction, paving the way for personalized therapies.

Dr. Allen Eaves, a physician-scientist and CEO of STEMCELL Technologies, shares his transformative journey from a bench scientist to a biotech entrepreneur. He discusses how his early work in hematopoiesis led to product innovations and the founding of his successful company. Allen highlights the differences between academic research and running a biotech business, emphasizing the importance of quality and strategic growth. He also offers practical advice for scientists looking to make similar career transitions, blending humor with insightful anecdotes.

Joining the discussion is Dr. Ritchie Ho, a postdoctoral scientist at Cedars-Sinai specializing in regenerative medicine and ALS research. He shares insights on modeling ALS using iPSC-derived motor neurons and how these models can reflect both familial and sporadic cases of the disease. Ritchie emphasizes the importance of assessing the maturity of these neurons and integrating clinical data to enhance ALS studies. He also highlights the impact of public initiatives like the Ice Bucket Challenge on research funding and collaboration in the field.

Dr. Christine Pratt, an Associate Professor at the University of Ottawa, dives deep into the complexities of breast cancer research. She discusses her transition from endocrinology to focusing on NF-kappa B signaling and its implications for BRCA1-related proliferation mechanisms. Pratt highlights how estrogen influences gene expression and the repercussions of BRCA1 deficiency on DNA replication. She also shares insights on potential treatments like DMAPT to curb abnormal cell growth and the role of the RANK pathway in preventing tumors, making strides towards effective prophylactic strategies.

Dr. Mark Freedman, a neurologist and MS researcher from the University of Ottawa, discusses groundbreaking stem cell therapies for multiple sclerosis. He explains the immune reboot hypothesis, which resets the immune system to examine triggers of MS. Freedman shares surprising durable remission cases where patients did not experience relapse post-treatment. He also highlights the ideal candidates for this therapy and the complexities of integrating stem cell approaches with existing treatments. His insights into MS and the evolving landscape of treatment are both enlightening and hopeful.

Dr. Raj Kittappa is a PhD-trained stem cell biologist and former political candidate focused on Parkinson's disease research. He shares insights on how midbrain dopaminergic neurons develop, emphasizing the roles of SHH, Wnt, and FOXA2. Raja also discusses his journey from lab work to politics, driven by a desire to influence research funding and policy. He highlights the need for scientists in politics to advocate for responsible regulatory practices like the REGROW Act, balancing rapid progress with safety in regenerative therapies.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Danwei Huangfu, a stem cell researcher at Memorial Sloan Kettering, delves into her groundbreaking work on gene editing and human development. She explains how her team utilizes CRISPR technology to manipulate human pluripotent stem cells to induce pancreatic beta cells, which could advance diabetes treatment. Danwei highlights the limitations of mouse models compared to human stem cells and the exciting prospects of immune engineering for cell therapy. Her insights into CRISPR screens showcase revolutionary paths for future research.

Dr. Kristin Hope, a stem cell researcher and Assistant Professor, shares her groundbreaking insights on umbilical cord blood-derived hematopoietic stem cells. She discusses her team's findings on Musashi-2, an RNA-binding protein that enhances stem cell self-renewal and expansion. Dive into the therapeutic potential of targeting Musashi-2 in leukemia treatments and the challenges and advantages of using cord blood for transplants. Kristin also highlights the need to explore understudied RNA-binding proteins in hematopoiesis, paving the way for future innovations.

Dr. Su-Chun Zhang, a renowned neuroscientist from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, dives into groundbreaking research on Parkinson's disease. He explains how he generates midbrain dopamine neurons from human stem cells, which are crucial for treating the condition. The discussion covers innovative approaches like creating a safety 'switch' for grafted cells and using designer receptors to control neuron activity. Zhang also highlights translational challenges and future clinical applications, showcasing the potential of stem cell therapy to revolutionize treatment for neurological disorders.

Dr. Arnold Kriegstein, a leading neuroscientist at UCSF known for his work on neural stem cells, digs deep into the Zika virus's alarming effects on fetal brain development. He explains how the virus targets neural stem cells, shedding light on its link to microcephaly and other serious conditions. Kriegstein also discusses promising AXL receptor inhibitors, potential therapeutic strategies, and the urgent need for effective vaccines and mosquito control to combat future outbreaks. His insights highlight the critical intersection of virology and regenerative medicine.