The Stem Cell Podcast Ep. 63: “Reprogrammed Stomach” Featuring Dr. Joe Zhou
Apr 12, 2016
Dr. Joe Zhao, an Associate Professor at Harvard and expert in stem cell biology, discusses groundbreaking research on transforming stomach cells into insulin-producing beta cells, which could revolutionize diabetes treatment. He explains the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes and the challenges of islet transplantation. Zhao also explores the potential of direct reprogramming over traditional embryonic methods, the ethical implications of his work, and the quest to translate these findings into human therapies.
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Stomach As A Beta Cell Source
- The antral stomach contains endocrine cells transcriptionally similar to pancreatic beta cells, making it a promising reprogramming target.
- Reprogramming these cells in vivo or as organoids supplied sustained glycemic control in diabetic mice.
Durable Function And Regeneration
- In vivo reprogrammed gastric cells suppressed hyperglycemia for months in diabetic mice.
- Unlike pancreatic beta cells, these gastric-derived cells regenerated rapidly after ablation.
Zhao's Lab Focus And Motivation
- Joe Zhao frames his lab around regenerating pancreatic beta cells to treat patients lacking functional insulin secretion.
- He focuses on converting non-beta cells into functional insulin-secreting cells using in vivo reprogramming.
