Nabiha Saklayen

Nabiha Saklayen, co-founder and CEO of Cellino Bio who builds automated systems for clinical-grade iPSC production. She walks through how iPSCs are reset to become any cell type. They discuss manufacturing automation, optics-based single-cell tools, surgical delivery methods, autologous versus off-the-shelf tradeoffs, costs and scaling targets, and early clinical progress in Parkinson’s and retinal/spinal trials.

Original broadcast date: January 7, 2022. New innovations in gene and stem cell technology have the power to shape ecosystems and even change humanity. This hour, TED speakers share the breakthroughs heralding the next scientific revolution. Guests include biochemist Jennifer Doudna, physicist and biotech entrepreneur Nabiha Saklayen and conservation innovator and biotech entrepreneur Ryan Phelan.TED Radio Hour+ subscribers now get access to bonus episodes, with more ideas from TED speakers and a behind the scenes look with our producers. A Plus subscription also lets you listen to regular episodes (like this one!) without ads. Sign-up at plus.npr.org/ted.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Nabiha Saklayen, co-founder and CEO of Cellino, dives into the world of induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs) and their potential to revolutionize treatments for diseases like Parkinson's and leukemia. She highlights the current artisanal nature of iPSC manufacturing, which hampers accessibility and speed. With a physics background, Nabiha discusses her innovative approach using lasers for automation, her efforts to create closed 'Nebula' systems, and collaborations for clinical trials. The future looks bright, with hopes for broader treatment options within just a few years.

Join Nobel Prize-winning biochemist Jennifer Doudna, renowned for her work on CRISPR, physicist and biotech entrepreneur Nabiha Saklayen, and conservation innovator Ryan Phelan as they delve into groundbreaking advancements in gene editing and stem cell technology. They discuss the transformative potential of CRISPR, its ethical implications, and the remarkable journey of the black-footed ferret, which highlights biotechnology's role in conservation. Together, they explore how innovation can reshape humanity and influence biodiversity.

Nabiha Saklayen, co-founder and CEO of Cellino, is revolutionizing access to cell therapies using innovative laser technology. She shares her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, highlighting her victory at TechCrunch Disrupt 2021. The conversation dives into building a skilled team, the significance of empathy in leadership, and the transformative impact of automated stem cell production on healthcare. Nabiha also emphasizes cultivating a positive workplace culture and the emotional motivations driving her quest for groundbreaking medical solutions.