The Immunology Podcast

Dr. Luke O’Neill, a biochemistry professor at Trinity College Dublin, dives deep into the world of inflammation and innate immunity. He explores how macrophages influence inflammatory responses and their potential role in treating nerve damage. The conversation includes exciting findings about T-cells in asthma and novel anti-inflammatory therapies being developed. O'Neill also discusses the burgeoning field of immunometabolism, where metabolism intersects with immune functionality, shedding light on future treatments for various diseases.

Dr. Wilfried Ellmeier, Professor at the Medical University of Vienna, leads the discussion alongside Dr. Laurence Zitvogel from Gustave Roussy and Dr. Dan Littman of NYU Langone. They dive into the upcoming IUIS 2025 Congress in Vienna, teasing highlights of the diverse program that will include groundbreaking topics like gut dysbiosis and cancer treatment. The trio also chat about the importance of inclusivity in immunology research and share exciting insights on T-regulatory cells and their role in cognitive health.

Dr. Erica Saphire, President and CEO of the La Jolla Institute, specializes in viral immunity and pathogenesis. She shares insights on the groundbreaking capabilities of cryo-electron microscopy, revealing how it can illuminate viral fusion processes like those of the measles virus. Saphire also discusses her leadership role and highlights the importance of research in combating viral diseases. The conversation spotlights the evolution of antibody responses and the innovative use of AI in structural biology to tackle complex viral challenges.

Dr. Nicole Quinn, Director of Brand and Scientific Communications at STEMCELL Technologies and co-host of Lab Coats & Life Podcast, discusses vital elements of mentorship in science. She shares insights from her journey into podcasting, emphasizing the significance of soft skills and trends in the scientific community. Their conversation also highlights the importance of professional visibility and diverse career paths for scientists. Listeners can look forward to the second season, focusing on fostering mentorship and staying informed in the ever-evolving scientific landscape.

Dr. Gail Bishop, a Professor at the University of Iowa and Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Immunology, dives into the fascinating world of lymphocyte signaling. She discusses the intricacies of TRAF signaling and the NFκB pathway's effects on B and T lymphocytes, shedding light on their roles in immunity. Additionally, the podcast touches on innovative T-cell receptor engineering and the surprising functions of macrophages in muscle interactions. Gail's insights into her editorial role reveal the evolving landscape of scientific publishing.

Dr. Lili Yang, a renowned professor at UCLA specializing in immunotherapy for cancer, dives into her innovative research on engineering off-the-shelf treatments. She discusses the exciting potential of CAR-NKT cells derived from stem cells, highlighting advancements in accessibility to therapies. Lili also explores the surprising link between serotonin, SSRIs, and their impact on cancer treatment efficacy. Her insights challenge traditional views, merging the realms of mental health and immunology in groundbreaking ways.

Dr. Rahul Roychoudhuri, a Professor of Cancer Immunology at the University of Cambridge, shares insights on groundbreaking research in cancer treatment. He discusses enhancing cancer cell targeting through innovative cell therapies and the role of immunomodulators like aspirin in preventing metastasis. The conversation also delves into the complexities of immune regulation in cardiac health and how recent discoveries in synthetic immunology could transform patient outcomes. This blend of cutting-edge research and practical applications makes for an intriguing listen!

Dr. Pascal Meier, a Professor at the Institute of Cancer Research in London, dives into the intricate connections between cell death and immunity. He discusses the significance of different cell death types, such as necroptosis and pyroptosis, in shaping immune responses, especially in cancer. The conversation also highlights the revolutionary role of engineered bacteria in enhancing anti-tumor immunity and the implications of chronic inflammation in health. Lastly, Meier shares insights on pursuing personal passions in a scientific career, blending professional and personal growth.

Dr. Marcelo Hill, head of the Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Inflammation at the Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, discusses enhancing immunotherapy for cancer through inflammasome activation. He emphasizes collaboration with industry to advance research. Joining him, Marion Brunck and María Julia Lamberti share insights on the Latin American immunology community, addressing challenges and opportunities for early-career researchers. They highlight the importance of the upcoming conference aimed at fostering collaboration and amplifying research visibility in the region.

Join Dr. JoAnne Flynn, a renowned tuberculosis researcher, and Dr. Stephen Hedrick, an expert in T cell receptors, as they dive into the 'Immunology Explained' campaign. They discuss how it aims to demystify immunology for the public and educate legislators about the importance of immunology research. The duo tackles complex topics like vaccine advocacy, the significance of natural killer cells in fighting RSV in children, and the challenge of addressing vaccine skepticism while promoting informed public health decisions.