Shows
Talking TechniquesCytokine networks in autoimmune diseases: mechanisms, pathogenesis and therapeutic innovationsIn this episode of Talking Techniques, Ritwika Biswas, Field Application Scientist at Sino Biological US Inc. (PA, USA), discusses the role of cytokines in autoimmune diseases, the techniques used to examine them and some emerging therapeutic innovations beginning to change the way we approach the treatment of autoimmune diseases.ContentsIntroduction: 00:00–02:06The role of cytokines in a healthy body: 02:06–03:57Cytokines in autoimmune diseases: 03:57–06:24Techniques for detecting cytokines in autoimmune diseases: 06:24–09:48Targeting cytokines for therapeutic purposes: 09:48–11:54Challenges with targeting cytokines in autoimmune diseases: 11:54–14:28Addressing the challenges of targeting cytokines: 14:28–16:43Established cytokine-targeting drugs: 16:43–18:57The future of cytokines in...
2025-06-1921 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | The experiences of an industry scientistIn this episode of the STEM Tea podcast, AJ Hinton is joined by Angela Pack – Senior Scientist at a pharmaceutical company in Rockville/Gaithersburg (MD, USA). Angela is an immunologist, who recently transitioned from infectious disease vaccine development to translational medicine and clinical trial data analysis. In this episode, Angela calls on her experience in academia and industry to discuss factors to consider when pursuing a scientific career in industry as well as career options for scientists who don’t want to be at the bench, highlighting the multitude of different roles that one can pursue....
2024-12-0350 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Mentoring junior faculty: how to handle the research tidal waveIn this episode of the STEM Tea podcast, AJ Hinton is joined by guest co-host Andrea Marshall, a Staff Scientist in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University (TN, USA) studying age-related changes in mitochondrial networks. The pair speak with David Drake (left), Professor of microbiology and infectious diseases in the Iowa Institute for Oral Health Research at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry (IA, USA), where his research focuses on the development of the oral microbiome in young children. In this episode, however, the focus is on mentoring. Throughout David’s 35-year prof...
2024-10-0151 min
STEM TeaScience beyond academia: a career in the charity sectorIn this episode of the STEM Tea podcast, host AJ Hinton is joined by Ashley Campbell. After being an Assistant Professor and working in EDI at the University of Rochester (NY, USA), Ashley is now Chief Impact Officer at United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes (NY, USA), a charity bringing together local people, companies, nonprofits and leaders to address the region’s biggest human services challenges to help the community thrive.In this episode, Ashley discusses her career, what led her to her current role and her favorite accomplishments. Ashley and AJ also ex...
2024-09-1738 min
Talking TechniquesSkills-based teaching and microcredentialing in STEMThis episode of Talking Technique deviates slightly from specific lab technologies to instead discuss techniques and methods we use for teaching and testing life sciences.To do this, I’m speaking to two pioneers of unconventional teaching and testing approaches to STEM education. Angela Consani is the Co-Founder and CEO of the Bioscience Core Skills Institute (KS, USA). This skills-first microcredential program provides certification for lab skills in techniques, safety and quality control, using performance-based practical testing. Natalie Kuldell is the Founder and Executive Director of Biobuilder (MA, USA), a nonprofit organization, set up to increase in...
2024-08-2054 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | How to lead a labIn this episode of STEM Tea, host AJ Hinton is joined by Quinton Smith, an Assistant Professor at the University of California, Irvine (CA, USA). Quinton’s lab focuses on distilling the complexity of early human development to controllable factors, creating synthetic biomaterials that support the differentiation and expansion of stem cell-derived organoids and building small and large-scale vascularized tissues from single donor iPSCs for regenerative medicine applications.Here, Quinton discusses his journey into academia, his lab’s research and how he balances life with work, blocking out time to look after his mental health. Quinton and AJ t...
2024-08-1344 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Empowering youth, empowering communities: on a mission to decolonize knowledgeHost AJ Hinton is joined by Alhaji N’jai, a man wearing many hats; Alhaji is a Senior Scientist, Associate Professor, Pan Africanist and philanthropist. Alhaji currently teaches at the University of Sierra Leone (Freetown, Sierra Leone) and the California University of Science and Medicine (CA, USA) while maintaining the position of Director of the Global Health Institute – One Health, West Africa, at the University of Wisconsin–Madison (WI, USA). Additionally, he is the Founder and Chief Strategist of Project1808 (WI, USA), an organization that forms partnerships with universities to foster community development through education.In this e...
2024-08-0654 min
Talking TechniquesAntigen validation and T-cell receptor engineering for cancer immunotherapiesThis episode of the Talking Techniques podcast dives into the realm of cancer immunotherapies, focusing on antigen discovery and T-cell receptor engineering for T-cell therapies. Guiding us through the field is Jim Heath, President of the Institute for Systems Biology in Seattle, where he runs the Heath Lab, investigating fundamental immunology, and infectious and chronic diseases. Jim discusses the computational models and wet lab techniques he uses to characterize T cells, the importance of targeting a balanced immune response with immunotherapies and more in this podcast recorded at AACR 2024 (5th–10th April 2024; San Diego, CA, USA)....
2024-07-1219 min
Talking TechniquesCytokines: from therapeutics to diagnosticsIn this episode of Talking Techniques, Ritwika Biswas, Field Application Scientist at Sino Biological US Inc. (PA, USA), discusses the use of cytokines in immunotherapy. Ritwika details the role of cytokines in the body, before going on to discuss how they can be used as therapeutics and to guide treatment decisions. Ritwika also shares how she thinks these proteins will be used in the future.Contents· Introduction: 00:00–01:35· The role of cytokines in the body: 01:35–02:52· Immune regulation and signaling: 02:52–05:40· Cytokine interactions and networks: 05:40–08:42· Modulating cytokine activity for therapeutic purposes: 08:42–12...
2024-07-1026 min
STEM TeaChampioning health equity for underserved communitiesIn this episode of STEM Tea, host AJ Hinton is joined by Ricardo Correa, an endocrinologist and the Director of Diversity in Graduate Medical Education at the University of Arizona College of Medicine (AZ, USA). After becoming a doctor in Panama and relocating to the USA to focus on research, Ricardo discovered a passion for health equity and decided to focus on helping underserved communities.Here, Ricardo discusses his journey into medicine and academia, the network of mentors he built along the way and how to increase minority representation in medical school. Ricardo also explains the...
2024-07-0259 min
STEM TeaBeyond borders: building an international collaboration baseIn this episode of STEM Tea, host AJ Hinton is joined by Annet Kirabo, an associate professor at Vanderbilt University (TN, USA). Annet research focuses on uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying activation of the immune system in response to hypertensive stimuli including excess dietary salt, sympathetic nerve outflow and oxidative stress, and how this impacts cardiovascular disease.Here, Annet discusses how her experiences growing up influence her work, how she sets up and maintains international collaborations and the importance of looking at someone’s potential rather than their track record. AJ and Annet also talk about ho...
2024-06-1144 min
STEM TeaThe beating heart of bioengineering, cardiovascular research and DEIHost AJ Hinton is joined by Brian Aguado, an Assistant Professor of Bioengineering at UC San Diego (CA, USA). Brian’s lab investigates sex differences in cardiovascular disease, using biomaterial and tissue engineering techniques to dissect the mechanisms that underly these sex differences. He is also the co-founder of LatinXinBME, a virtual community where LatinX individuals in biomedical engineering can connect. In this episode of the STEM Tea podcast, Brian shares the experiences that brought him to a career in research, the importance of authenticity in a leadership position and the goals he has for resolving th...
2024-06-0439 min
STEM TeaMentoring and microscopy cores: central pillars of academic learningIn this episode of the STEM Tea Podcast, AJ speaks with Kaye Thomas (University of Rochester, NY, USA) and Feather Ives (University of California, Berkley, CA, USA) about the career paths that led them to their respective microscopy cores. Feather and Kaye detail the value that cores can impart on your career and how they can be critical sources of hands-on, practical learning. Discover the work of communities such as PAIR-UP and BioImaging North America – operating to improve DEAI in the microscopy space – and how scholarships such as the Meyerhoff Scholars Program can impact a career.Feather and...
2024-05-1344 min
STEM TeaNavigating the twists and turns of a career in academiaIn this episode, host AJ Hinton is joined by Jenny Schafer – Managing Director of the Cell Imaging Shared Resource (CISR) Core and a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology (both Vanderbilt University, GA, USA) – and Evan Krystofiak – Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology. Krystofiak is also responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of CISR’s electron microscopy division. Schafer and Krystofiak discuss their career paths, from their undergraduate degrees to where they are now, highlighting the twists and turns that scientific careers can take. Beyond work at the cor...
2024-04-1136 min
STEM TeaEstevao, exercise and coaching as mentoringIn this episode of the STEM Tea podcast, AJ delves into the world of exercise science with Estevao Scudese, a Research Associate at the Federal University of State of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) investigating the intersection between molecular biology and exercise, where he also works as a physical trainer and coach. Estevao discusses his path into the physical sciences and the current research landscape and outlook for this rapidly expanding field, detailing the biggest risks and key motivating moments throughout his career, before revealing the parallels between coaching and mentoring, and how he encourages people to...
2024-04-0248 min
Talking TechniquesSpatial analysis of the immune-cell-surface proteome at a single-cell resolutionThe cell-surface proteome plays a critical role in immune-cell function; however, our ability to examine its interactions and spatial organization has previously been limited by available proteomic techniques. This episode explores the function of immune-cell membrane proteins and how the latest developments in spatial proteomics have enabled more detailed interrogation of these proteins and their spatial relationships.Our guest, Hanna van Ooijen, Immunology Application Scientist at Pixelgen Technologies guides us through the field, revealing a new technique that enables spatial analysis of the cell-surface proteome at a single-cell resolution and highlighting some exciting discoveries that it has...
2024-03-2223 min
STEM TeaMentoring to inspire diversity in science with Alissa ArmstrongIn this episode, host AJ Hinton is joined by Alissa Armstrong, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of South Carolina (SC, USA). Armstrong uses the model organism Drosophila melanogaster – the fruit fly – to research how multiple organs communicate information about nutrition to one another. Armstrong is a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) Science Diversity Leadership (SDL) grantee, awarded for her study of inter-organ communication with adipose tissue and her long-standing commitment to mentoring and outreach activities since graduate school. Her passion for mentoring the next generation of Black and Brown students has been...
2024-03-0535 min
Talking TechniquesInvestigating the neurological pathways underlying vocal communicationIn this episode of Talking Techniques, we catch up with Michael Long, Principle Investigator of the Long Lab at New York University (NY, USA), where he investigates the neural circuits that underlie vocal communication.Through the examination of animal models, from songbirds to the rare singing mice of Costa Rica, with cutting-edge imaging techniques Michael reveals fascinating insights into vocal communication. We also discuss his human experiments, working alongside neurosurgeons, with emerging electrophysiological probes to monitor the neural activity of participants as they speak and interact, ultimately revealing how this research could begin to provide solutions for...
2024-02-2034 min
STEM TeaScience beyond academia: a career in academic publishingIn this episode of the STEM Tea podcast, AJ Hinton discusses a career in academic publishing with Alexander Hutchison, the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Cellular Physiology (NJ, USA). Following a PhD in Kinesiology and Exercise Science at the University of Houston (TX, USA) and working in academia for several years, Alexander changed career to working in scientific publishing and has also written a number of books.Contents:Introduction 00:00 – 03:15What is the difference between the Senior Editor and Editor-in-Chief of a journal? 03:15 – 06:03Take us through the day...
2024-02-0649 min
Talking TechniquesRare disease and pharmacogenomicsLaunching our fourth season of Talking Techniques, this episode, supported by the University of Cincinnati (OH, USA) we delve into rare disease research and pharmacogenomics, their intersection and the key techniques used to explore them.Guiding us through these fields is Brenna Carey, an Assistant Professor at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center whose research focuses on rare disease pathogenesis, diagnostics and therapeutic development and who also runs key courses on the University’s Pharmacogenomics and Drug Discovery Masters degree programs.Contents:Introduction: 00:00-01:15An introduction to pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP...
2024-01-2320 min
STEM TeaOutreach, science communication and mentoringMichelle Juarez is the Diversity Outreach Coordinator at Stony Brook University (NY, USA) and joins AJ Hinton on this episode of the STEM Tea podcast to discuss science communication, promoting biological education within communities and Frontiers for Young Minds, an open-access academic journal that publishes articles edited by kids for kids.Contents:o Introduction 00:00 – 01:03o What has been your journey to the DNA Learning Center? 01:03 – 02:11o How are you communicating science to the wider community? 02:11 – 03:55o What are some key areas that could inspire and motivate students to be the best scien...
2024-01-1638 min
STEM TeaEmbarking on a postdoc abroad and mentoring students outside the labTo kick off season 2 of the STEM Tea podcast, host AJ Hinton is joined by Aaron Streets, an Associate Professor of Bioengineering at the University of California, Berkley (CA, USA), to discuss the benefits of going abroad for your postdoc, the importance of being mindful as to which opportunities you agree to and celebrating your accomplishments. ContentsIntroductions 00:00 – 01:38Could you tell us more about your research program? 01:38 – 03:10Why did you choose to go to Peking University for your postdoc? Can you speak Mandarin Chinese? 03:10 – 05:54Do you still take time to practice Mandarin today? 05:54 – 07:37Do you have advi...
2024-01-0959 min
Talking TechniquesOne man’s waste in another man’s treasure: using wastewater to monitor infectious diseasesIn this episode of Talking Techniques, we talk to Andrew Lee, a senior research fellow in Queen’s University Belfast’s (UK) wastewater-based epidemiology group, about his work using wastewater to monitor and detect infectious diseases. Andrew discusses how wastewater surveillance acts as an early warning system, providing novel, unbiased insights into human and animal pathogens that are circulating within a community, and how this can contribute to a ‘One Health’ approach. He also explains how he has incorporated nanopore sequencing into his work, and the advantages that this provides.Contents:· 00:00–01:45: Introductions· 01:45–...
2023-12-1820 min
Talking TechniquesNext-generation antibody therapeuticsIn this episode of Talking Techniques, we speak to two experts from Sino Biological US Inc. (PA, USA) about the latest developments in antibody technologies and how these developments have led to the next generation of antibodies that are revolutionizing therapeutic approaches to a number of diseases.With the guidance of Field Scientist Ritwika Biswas and Technical Account Manager Grace Liu, we explore the challenges of developing and working with next-generation antibodies, the latest developments and applications of these molecules and the holy grail that antibody designers are driving towards.Contents:Introduction: 00:00 – 02:40The hi...
2023-11-2224 min
Talking TechniquesInvestigating resistant leukemia with single-cell technologiesIn this episode of Talking Techniques, Rachel Thijssen, an Assistant Professor at Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC; the Netherlands), discusses her research using single-cell analyses to investigate treatment-resistant leukemia cells. Rachel explains her single-cell technique called rapid capture hybridization sequencing (RaCH-seq), how she utilizes nanopore sequencing, and how she hopes that this technique can be used to gain new insights into disease and improve therapies. Contents:00:00–01:35: Introduction 01:35–03:25: Single-cell sequencing in leukemia research03:25–05:15: What is single-cell RaCH-seq?05:15–06:10: Using nanopore sequencing for RaCH-seq06:10–07:30: How can other researchers apply RaCH...
2023-11-0309 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | season 1 roundupSTEM Tea host AJ Hinton looks back at the first season of the STEM Tea podcast, featuring many guests who’ve shared their perspectives and experiences on a variety of topics including mentoring, faith in science and improving DEI initiatives in schools. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-10-0613 min
Talking TechniquesCAR-T and CAR-NK cell therapiesIn this episode of Talking Techniques, Ritwika Biswas, Field Scientist at Sino Biological US Inc. (PA, USA), walks us through the chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) development process and how T and natural killer (NK) cells can be utilized to carry these modular synthetic molecules. Ritwika also addresses the safety and efficacy of these cell therapies as well as the ethical considerations around them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-2727 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Black professionalism in STEMThis episode of STEM Tea, hosted by Elsie Calderon Spencer (Columbia University, NY, USA), sheds light on the implicit biases of workplace dress policies. Elsie is joined by Haysetta Shuler, Maria Namwanje and Ella Adjei-Sowa to discuss the continued policing of hair and cultural dress in professional settings and how the perception of what ‘professionalism’ should look like creates barriers that impact people of color, especially Black women. They also consider the role that social media has played in hair acceptance and give recommendations to ensure that dress policies are respectful and inclusive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com...
2023-07-2120 min
Talking TechniquesMitochondria, the immune system and cancer: discovering new insights with spatial technologiesIn this episode, supported by Fortis Life Sciences, we delve into the relationship between mitochondria, inflammation and cancer, discussing the new techniques that are bearing fruit in this field, such as spatial analysis.Our expert insight for this episode comes from Phillip West, Principle Investigator of the West lab at Texas A&M Medicine (TX, USA). Philip explains the role mitochondria can play in cancer and heart disease, reveals some of his most exciting discoveries of late and provides technical tips for investigating this field.Listen on to discover how his use of spatial techniques...
2023-06-1624 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Representation matters: dialects and accents in the workplaceIn this episode of the STEM Tea podcasts, guests discuss how language discrimination affects non-native English speakers in academia, US laws prohibiting discrimination and how to create more inclusive workspaces. This episode is moderated by Ella Adjei-Sowah, a graduate student at the University of Rochester (NY, USA) studying nanoparticles as drug delivery methods. She is joined by Haysetta Shuler, a DEI consultant and STEM mentor; Elsie Calderon Spencer, Administrative Director for the National Center for Children and Families at the Teachers College, Columbia University (NY, USA); Estevão Scudese, a researcher at the Laboratory of Biosciences o...
2023-05-2616 min
Talking TechniquesLong-read sequencing, metagenomics and the microbiomeIn this episode, sponsored by Zymo Research, we explore the microbiome and how long-read sequencing techniques are changing our approach to the field and the exciting discoveries that they have led to. To do this we speak to Kris Locken, Molecular Biologist in the Research & Development department of Zymo Research (CA, USA), and Jeremy Wilkinson, Global Marketing Specialist for Microbial Genomics at PacBio (CA, USA).Find out how microbes compare to nuts and what this means for the challenges of metagenomic sample preparation, how long reads can stack up vs short reads for metagenome assembly and...
2023-05-1022 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Mentoring international studentsThis episode of STEM Tea is all about challenges specific to international students, such as language barriers, finding social and cultural acceptance and navigating visa restrictions. Cicely Wilson, an Associate Professor of Communications at Union University (TN, USA) who studies the lack of research featuring students and scholars of color in the field of communication, hosts this episode and discusses these topics with Haysetta Shuler, a DEI consultant and STEM mentor; Elsie Spencer, Administrative Director for the National Center for Children and Families at the Teachers College, Columbia University (NY, USA); Ella Adjei-Sowah, a graduate student...
2023-04-2816 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Women in STEMOn International Women’s Day, the STEM Tea podcast was taken over by the wonderful Andrea Marshall, a staff scientist in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University (TN, USA) studying age-related changes in mitochondrial networks. Andrea was joined by guests Heather Beasley and Mariya Sweetwyne; together, they drew on their experiences to discuss motherhood while in academia, the differences between equality and equity, why DEI efforts need to be more proactive than just providing visibility, and they consider starting their own institution…Heather is a Postdoc at the Hinton Lab (Vanderbilt University) studying cancer...
2023-04-141h 00
Talking TechniquesOpen neuroscience and the meaning of FAIRThis episode, our second recorded at Neuroscience 2022 (13-19th April 2022; San Diego, CA, USA), delves into the importance of open data in neuroscience and the FAIR guidelines, which encourage researchers to make their data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable.Sharing her considerable expertise in this area is one of the authors of the FAIR guidelines, Maryann Martone, who provides some key examples of the successes that open data practices have delivered so far and cautionary tales for how current practices are damaging the field.Listen on to find out how to implement open...
2023-02-0337 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Mentoring first-generation studentsAJ chats with Keisha Hardeman and Arnaldo Díaz Vázquez about some of the challenges of being a first-generation student as an undergraduate through to a postdoc and faculty member. They discuss how mentors can empower their mentees to take control of their academic careers and provide a sense of belonging to ensure first-generation students feel supported. Keisha is a Postdoctoral Scholar and PROVIDES fellow at The University of Texas Southwestern (TX, USA) in cancer biology studying how cells respond metabolically to different types of drugs. Arnaldo is the Assistant Dean for Diversity for the gr...
2023-01-2757 min
Talking TechniquesWelcome to the jungle: sequencing for conservationIn this episode of Talking Techniques, we head to the Ecuadorian rainforest to chat about the use of sequencing in conservation with Zane Libke, a field researcher based at Sumak Kawsay In Situ (Pastaza, Ecuador). Zane discusses how he turned his fascination with nature into a career, his current work using nanopore sequencing technologies to find undescribed species and helping train future field researchers.We also explore the benefits of fighting biodiversity in a more local-centric way and using research to protect the area from exploitative companies.Contents:Intro: 00:00–01:35Zane’s wo...
2023-01-2543 min
Talking TechniquesNeuropixels: big data heaven or burying the lead in averages?In this special episode of Talking techniques, one of two recorded at Neuroscience 2022, we speak to Tim Harris (Howard Hughes Medical Institute, VA, USA). Tim is the creator of Neuropixels, neural recording probes inserted into the brains of animal models, which allow researchers to collect signals from hundreds of individual neurons in different brain regions simultaneously over extended periods of time.Here, he shares the story behind his creation and details how they have changed the data collection landscape in Neuroscience. Tim also considers every inventor’s greatest concern: has his invention led to purely positive ou...
2023-01-1819 min
Talking TechniquesWelcome to the jungle: sequencing for conservationIn this episode of Talking Techniques, we head to the Ecuadorian rainforest to chat about the use of sequencing in conservation with Zane Libke, a field researcher based at Sumak Kawsay In Situ (Pastaza, Ecuador). Zane discusses how he turned his fascination with nature into a career, his current work using nanopore sequencing technologies to find undescribed species and helping train future field researchers.We also explore the benefits of fighting biodiversity in a more local-centric way and using research to protect the area from exploitative companies.Contents:Intro: 00:00–01:35Zane’s wo...
2023-01-1243 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Continuing the DEI journey in STEMIn this episode of STEM Tea, AJ chats with Chrystal Starbird and Aileen Fernandez about how institutions can make diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) improvements. They talk about the needs of DEI and how this should be incorporated into the classroom from schools to undergraduate and postgraduate studies and beyond. Chrystal is a faculty member at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (NC, USA) in the biochemistry and biophysics department and is a structural biologist studying cell surface receptors. Aileen is a postdoc at Yale School of Medicine (CT, USA) in the department of pathology and...
2022-12-071h 12![Technical News Reading [W[R]C]](https://d1z76fhpoqkd01.cloudfront.net/1400x1400/episode/f864d18a7d4eccb15bbd112b85ab288b894f9395759e86dd79887caa55b336fa/aba157a3-bd4a-43ce-a61a-9b28c45d601c.png)
Technical News Reading [W[R]C]Finding the sweet spot of female pleasurehttps://www.biotechniques.com/neuroscience/10x_neuroi_sptl_finding-the-sweet-spot-of-female-pleasure/?utm_campaign=BioTechniques%20-%20Daily%20NL&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=232858672&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--46LMtk1cFLJwHN3g-3WdVzvOR2e-nPLgVhYdoJFSdLUkGc7H8fHkP9c0dpQZvPbhtxtLJD22Sfa5oZgOQkflW1UVkwvnnoA6MHia6Tp4_lce1uTE&utm_content=232828997&utm_source=hs_email Researchers pinpoint the region of the brain that responds to clitoral stimulation. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/937909
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2022-11-0813 min
STEM TeaFaith in scienceIn this episode of STEM Tea AJ and Tina speak to Melanie McReynolds, HHMI Hanna H. Gray Fellow and Rising Assistant Professor at the Pennsylvania State University (PA, USA). Here she discusses her research on the intersection of metabolic decline and aging, overcoming challenges along the route from her postdoc to her faculty position and key advice on grant writing and choosing the right postdoc position for you.What emerges throughout the episode though, is the consistent theme of Melanie's powerful faith and how it has helped her on numerous occasions throughout her career. Melanie reveals t...
2022-10-2039 min
Talking TechniquesMicrobiome profiling techniques: from immunology to agricultureIn this episode of the Talking Techniques podcast, we explore microbiomes and the techniques used to profile them. Get an overview of the different techniques’ working principles, their pros and cons and the different applications that they are best suited to.Providing an expert insight into this field is Annabelle Damerum, Microbiome R&D Scientist at Zymo Research. Annabelle reveals some key tips best practice when profiling the microbiome and details the importance of an emerging aspect of the field: the vaginal microbiome.Contents: Into: 00:00-01:50Why it is important to...
2022-09-2922 min
Talking TechniquesThe gut–brain axis and addictionIn this special episode of Talking Techniques, brought to you from the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum (FENS; 9th–13th July 2022), an expert panel discuss their research into the relationship between the gut–brain axis and addiction.The panel features Benjamin Boutrel (Lausanne University Hospital; Switzerland), Lorenzo Leggio (NIH Intramural Research Program; MD, USA) and Nathalie Delzenne (University of Louvain; Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium), who discuss their current research into the role of the microbiota in alcohol addiction, if this work could be translated into the clinic, and if similar processes are at play in other addictions, such as...
2022-09-2829 min
STEM TeaSTEM Tea | Hispanic PanelAJ, your STEM Tea host, chats with Jose Gomez, Vivian Gama, Edgar Garza López and Elsie Spencer (all Vanderbilt University; TN, USA) about their different paths through academia and their research. Together, they discuss their experiences of developing leadership skills and continuously improving their approaches to mentoring. The panel concludes with a discussion about their experiences as Latino or Latina in STEM.ContentsIntroduction: 00:00 – 01:30Introduction to the panel of guests: 01:30 – 02:47Elsie Spencer’s research in STEMM education and DEI efforts within the field: 02:47 – 05:09Elsie Spencer’s research on maternal health 05:09 – 06:41Vivian Gama’s research prog...
2022-09-271h 06
STEM TeaFrom prison cells to PhD with Stanley AndrisseIn this episode of STEM Tea, AJ talks to Stanley Andrisse, Assistant Professor at Howard University (DC, USA) and Executive Director of the nonprofit From Prison Cells to PhD, whose mission is, "to reach, touch, and change the lives of individuals with disadvantaged backgrounds through advocacy, mentoring, and policy change."Stanley's drive to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds and those who have been incarcerated transition into professional careers, is matched only by his passion for endocrinology research. Hear AJ and Stanley discuss his story, from his latest publication on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and non-alcoholic fatty...
2022-08-2654 min
Talking Techniques3D cell cultures: the latest developments, applications and regulations in the fieldIn this episode, supported by BrandTech, returning guest Rob Vries, CEO of HUB organoids (Utrecht, The Netherlands), fills us in on the advancement of 3D cell cultures and organoids over the last 2 years, starting off by documenting how the pandemic impacted their development and uptake.We also discuss how the recent FDA Modernization Act, removing the requirement for drug candidates to be tested on animals, has impacted the drive for improved models, the key techniques available to analyze them and what still needs to change for 3D cell cultures to fully replace animal models in the...
2022-08-2630 min
Talking TechniquesrAAVs, host-cell contamination and ddPCRIn this episode of Talking Techniques, supported by Bio-Rad, we discuss a key component of many gene therapies: recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) and their production. These viruses act as efficient, accurate delivery vesicles for the gene therapy’s plasmid.Speaking to Associate Director of Biopharma Product Marketing at Bio-Rad Laboratories, Mark White, we take a look at the different expression systems used for their production and compare their advantages, before looking at some of the challenges involved in the production rAAVs, such as host-cell contamination.Discover the tools that can help minimize host-cell cont...
2022-08-0326 min
STEM TeaBuilding mentoring networks with Christina TerminiIn the first episode of STEM Tea, we provide an introduction to the series and our host, the enigmatic Antentor Othrell Hinton Jr, Assistant Professor of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University (TN, USA), and learn more about his mission to improve the state of mentoring and DEAI in STEM.In this episode, Antentor dives into a conversation with Christina Termini, Assistant Professor at the Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center (CA, USA) about mentoring practices, LatinX representation in STEM and the role that scientific societies, such as the American Society of Cell Biology, can play...
2022-08-0334 min
Talking TechniquesHPV, epigenetics and cancer: sequencing for new insights and to correct healthcare inequalityIn many regions of the world, HPV and its association with cervical cancer is a well-known but rarely considered issue, after the rollout of the HPV vaccine in the late 2000s. However, while this rollout significantly impacted cervical cancer rates where it was implemented, it was not universal and in many areas of the world HPV-induced cervical cancer remains a critical issue.Cervical cancer is the leading cause of death for people with a cervix living in poverty in low-resource regions and on the continent of Africa, it is estimated that in 2020 as many people with...
2022-07-2817 min
Talking TechniquesArtificial intelligence in healthcareRecently, the Alliance for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (AAIH) published "The Lifecycle of an AI System in Healthcare", a whitepaper defining what healthcare is and provides guidelines on implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in this setting.In this episode of Talking Techniques, we speak with Oscar Rodriguez, a board member at AAIH and one of the authors of this whitepaper, to find out more about what the lifecycle of AI is, the importance of having guidelines when applying AI or ML in healthcare and what the future holds for this type of computer...
2022-07-2030 min
Talking TechniquesLiquid biopsy and cfNAs: driving forward diagnostics and disease researchThe key diagnostic and prognostic information locked away in cell-free nucleic acids (cfNAs) has become increasingly accessible due to developments in genetic and epigenetic profiling techniques. These advances have engendered the rise of liquid biopsy techniques, which capture and analyze cfNAs from samples such as blood, saliva, urine and feces, in diagnostics and basic disease research.However, challenges remain in the detection and analysis of these nucleic acid fragments, in part due to their low abundance and fragile nature. In this episode, Ayla Maunighan-Peter, Epigenetics Product Specialist at Zymo research (CA, USA), details the utility of...
2022-05-2622 min
Talking TechniquesLiquid biopsy and cfNAs: driving forward diagnostics and disease researchThe key diagnostic and prognostic information locked away in cell-free nucleic acids (cfNAs) has become increasingly accessible due to developments in genetic and epigenetic profiling techniques. These advances have engendered the rise of liquid biopsy techniques, which capture and analyze cfNAs from samples such as blood, saliva, urine and feces, in diagnostics and basic disease research.However, challenges remain in the detection and analysis of these nucleic acid fragments, in part due to their low abundance and fragile nature. In this episode, Ayla Maunighan-Peter, Epigenetics Product Specialist at Zymo research (CA, USA), details the utility of...
2022-05-2322 min
Talking TechniquesThe evolution of recombinant antibodiesIn this episode, we discuss recombinant proteins: what are they and what are they used for? BioTechniques Editor Tristan Free speaks to Amy Sheng, Technical Account Manager at Sino Biological, who explains the history of recombinant proteins and how protein modeling techniques such as AlphaFold are changing their development. Find out how monoclonal antibodies have been used through the COVID-19 pandemic and how we may overcome challenges in production, upscaling and more in this episode of Talking Techniques. Contents:Introduction 00:00-01:26What are recombinant p...
2022-04-1917 min
Talking TechniquesThe epigenetic clockIn this episode, supported by Zymo Research, we discuss the epigenetic clock: what is it? How are researchers using it and what are some of the key tools available to study it? Elucidating the link between epigenetics and aging is Keith Booher, Director of Services at Zymo research including aging and epigenetics research services. Keith reveals how our behaviors and environment, such as diet, exercise and air quality, can impact our epigenetics and the impact that the epigenetic clock has played in the development of new therapeutics.Find out how you can reverse...
2022-03-2524 min
Talking TechniquesResolving spatial biology in neuroscienceIn this episode of Talking Techniques, supported by Resolve BioSciences, we explore the realm of spatial biology, with a particular focus on the techniques involved in this approach to biological exploration, and the exciting insights gleaned from these techniques that have led to this approach being labeled Natures Method of the year 2020! Stefano Pupe, Postdoctoral Researcher at German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, takes me through this field, revealing – amongst other fascinating insights – the neuroscience studies that can now be conducted on live mice to monitor their neurological cell expression profiles as they perform specific behaviors. We also d...
2022-02-2830 min
Talking TechniquesIntroducing STEM TeaIn this episode of Talking Techniques, we introduce a new podcast series, produced by BioTechnques and hosted by the enigmatic Antentor Othrell Hinton Jr, Assistant Professor of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at the Vanderbilt University (TN, USA), and bring you a sneak peek of the first episode of the series.In this podcast series, Antentor will discuss all things diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM, meeting with different guests each episode from across the spectrum of fields and people in the research community. Each episode will keep science at its core, exploring each guest's research and...
2022-02-1734 min
Talking TechniquesCell proliferation in drug screeningIn this episode, supported by BioRad, we explore cell proliferation monitoring and its role in drug discovery, guided by the expert advice of Rachel Preston, Product Development researcher at Bio-Rad. We discuss techniques available to monitor cell proliferation, their advantages and disadvantages and the importance of selecting the right combination of techniques for different experimental targets. Rachel also provides some tips for best practice and some pitfalls to avoid regarding DNA damage and highlights the importance of good quality antibodies in cell proliferation assays.Don’t miss out on the most exciting applications of...
2022-01-2520 min
Talking TechniquesSynthetic biology: from cancer to the climate crisisIn this episode, we explore the field of synthetic biology. Discover the history of the field and its origins in the production of biofuels, before fracking burst onto the scene forcing a pivot in direction towards chemical production. Find out about the key techniques that have brought synthetic biology into the realm of immunotherapies and cancer research, which have even welcomed in a return to applications focussed on tackling the climate crisis, such as lab-grown meat. To investigate this space, I speak with Merrit Savener, Biopharma Technical Account Manager at Molecular Devices (CA, USA) and Adam...
2021-12-2126 min
Talking TechniquesEstablishing an epigenetic lens to explore cancer and infectious diseasesWe are talking all things DNA methylation in this episode, providing a brief explanation of epigenetics and the technologies involved in the study of DNA methylation, before exploring the application of these techniques in the study of infectious diseases and cancer. Revealing all of this information is my guest Chloé Goldsmith, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Canberra University, whose research focuses on DNA methylation, Hepatitis B Virus and the link between lifestyle and the epigenome. Chloé explains the strengths and weaknesses of the different techniques used to explore DNA methylation and highlights the advances in long-read sequencing th...
2021-11-1223 min
Talking TechniquesTarget enrichment for NGS: why, how and what's next?In this episode, supported by Roche, we explore a vital aspect of many next-generation sequencing studies: target enrichment. Here, regions of interest are selectively amplified before sequencing takes place. More specifically we examine some of the new technologies improving this key step and their impact on oncology research. My guest for this episode is Brian Godwin, Director of Reagent and Assay Development at Roche sequencing. Brian reveals the myriad of ways that poor target enrichment can impact a study while highlighting its importance at the foundations of many research efforts. Discover the key limitations of some...
2021-10-2618 min
Talking TechniquesProducing challenging proteins in the golden age of protein engineeringIn this episode, we roam the world of recombinant proteins and their production, discussing the challenges of their production, and recent evolutions in protein engineering that have brought the field into a golden era of innovation.I'm joined by recombinant protein engineering expert Yuning Chen, R&D Manager at Sino Biological, who discusses the key applications of recombinant proteins, the aspects of certain products that make them difficult to produce and how these difficulties can be overcome. Yuning also reveals how the manipulation of antibodies has been essential to multiple aspects of our response to the C...
2021-10-1319 min
Talking TechniquesThe evolution of PCR: From q to dd and beyondPCR has evolved rapidly over the last few years, an evolution that has been dramatically accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. New technologies and approaches have been brought to the fore and the full range of applications for which this technique can be applied have been highlighted, from diagnostics to basic disease research and immunology.This episode explores this evolution, looking at how challenges presented by the pandemic forced the hand of researchers to think outside the box and build on lesser-known PCR technologies. Here, Eddy van Collenburg, Market Development Specialist at Bio-Rad (CA, USA), provides his i...
2021-09-2124 min
Talking TechniquesMolecular therapeutics: how far have we come and what's on the horizon? Uncover the history of molecular therapeutics, the staggering current applications and developments of these therapeutics and what their future could hold, in this episode of Talking Techniques.To explore the field of molecular therapeutics and provide an insight into their production, is Aaron Clauson, Product Manager at Zymo research. First, we cover the ins and outs of targeting the therapies and how to select the correct type of molecular therapeutic to begin developing a drug for a specific disease, before looking at some of the setbacks and safety errors that have occurred during the development of...
2021-08-2737 min
Talking TechniquesAdeno-associated viral therapies: harnessing the power of HPLCThis episode centers on the critical role that high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) plays in the production of adeno-associated viral (AAV) therapies, the latest advances in AAV design and the next steps in their development.Filling me in on all things HPLC and AAVs is Bella Neufeld, Director of R&D at Teknova. Bella reveals the essential validation and quality control steps required for the production of successful and safe AAV therapies and the role that both HPLC and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LCMS) play in these steps. We also explore the latest development targets for these th...
2021-08-1820 min
Talking TechniquesOrganoids: advancing drug discovery and cancer researchAs the transition from 2D to 3D cell cultures, or organoids, as the gold standard for modeling basic biology and disease continues, these models are being utilized in ever more intricate and impactful ways.This episode covers the rise of organoids and their advantages over 2D cell cultures, before exploring just how representative these models are becoming and their new applications in drug discovery. To find out all this and more, I speak to Oksana Sirenko, Senior Scientist at Molecular Devices, who works extensively with the company's organoid model development programs. Oksana reveals t...
2021-08-1633 min
Talking TechniquesThe ethics of whole-genome sequencing: from race and religion to science fictionWelcome to part two of this two-part episode on whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in rare disease research and treatment. In part one we discussed the impacts the technology has had on both improving the clinical diagnosis and management of rare diseases and on drug development and basic research studies.This episode goes beyond the technology’s capabilities and into the debates surrounding how, when and why they should be used. What needs to change for the technique to be applied equitably? And how does reality stack up against science fiction in terms of people’s perceptions of ubiq...
2021-06-2527 min
Talking TechniquesRevitalizing the western blotLove it or hate it, western blotting forms the bedrock of countless studies across numerous disciplines. Explore its history, development and applications in this episode all about the marmite of life science techniques.Guiding me through the hand wringing, hair follicle destroying history and process of western blotting, and hopefully explaining the beauty and potential of the technique - is Kenneth Oh, Senior Project Manager at Bio-Rad Laboratories. Kenneth reveals some of the latest developments in western blotting. Revealing how researchers are now able to validate the success of each stage of a...
2021-06-2122 min
Talking TechniquesFrom space to the streets: infectious disease sampling in extreme conditions and extraordinary circumstancesIn this episode, we take a look at one of the key steps of infectious disease research, sample collection; exploring the challenges associated with the step and the solutions available to improve infectious disease research around the globe.Exploring the trials and tribulations of infectious disease sample collection with me is Stanislav Forman, Product Developer at Zymo Research (CA, USA). Stan explains the extreme environments in which sample collection often occurs; revealing the difficult transit and storage requirements – often involving cold chain logistics – that can derail infectious disease studies early on.Find out how ke...
2021-06-1819 min
Talking TechniquesRevealing the regulome: using multiomic approaches to explore epigenetics and DNA expressionExplore the realm of epigenetics and gene expression, discovering the different omic ‘lenses’ used to examine these processes and the power of single-cell studies to reveal a comprehensive multiomic view of cells and their biology. This episode features the ever-buoyant Will Greenleaf, Associate Professor of Genetics at Stanford University School of Medicine (CA, USA) and head of the Greenleaf Lab. Will takes us through his lab’s work, detailing his attempts to understand the compacting of DNA into cell nuclei and how this impacts gene expression and epigenetic regulation.Discover the emerging new research...
2021-06-1133 min
Talking TechniquesThe oncolytic Trojan horse: Immune cells, the tumor microenvironment and the invasion of neuronsThis episode, supported by Bethyl, delves into the realm of the tumor microenvironment (TME), exploring the cells that reside there and how they interact to promote tumor growth and metastasis. Discover how immune cells are attracted and manipulated by tumor cells enabling the cancer to invade neurons where they can then travel throughout the body.Providing an expert's insight into this topic is Moran Amit, Assistant Professor at the MD Anderson Cancer Center (TX, USA). Moran exposes the nebulous interactions in the TME and describes the techniques that he uses to interrogate it, in the hope...
2021-05-2829 min
Talking TechniquesWhole-genome-sequencing: navigating the "Diagnostic Odyssey" in rare disease research Rare diseases present a series of challenges on numerous fronts. From simply deciphering what a patient is affected by to considering how best to manage a rare condition with limited pre-existing medications available for a rare disease, each new development or breakthrough brings clinicians to a new question. While these conditions are, in isolation, rare; in total rare diseases impact 25-30million people in the USA alone. Supported by Psomagen and featuring four fascinating guests from across the spectrum of topics and focuses in the rare disease space, this episode explores the updates to whole-genome sequencing...
2021-05-1939 min
Talking TechniquesThe wonders of wastewater surveillance for COVID-19In this episode, we explore the often overlooked technique of environmental sequencing for infectious diseases and how it is being applied to the response to COVID-19. Taking the state of California as a case study of this application, I speak to Micheal Lisek, Project Manager Environmental Microbiomics at Zymo Research Corp. Micheal outlines the basis of environmental sequencing, predominantly the screening of wastewater for signs of viral RNA, the key techniques involved in the process and challenges associated with it. Micheal also explains the key pieces of information that can be obtained by environmental sequencing and the...
2021-04-1928 min
Talking TechniquesHow PCR has prevailed during the COVID-19 pandemicIn Part 3 of our COVID-19 diagnostics and detection miniseries, supported by Roche, we explore the contribution PCR has made towards diagnosis during the pandemic. Providing me with an insight into the world of PCR diagnostics is Tyler Miller, Clinical Pathology Resident and Research Fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital (MA, USA), where he was instrumental in setting up the testing regimen for the Hospital.Ty details the attributes of PCR that lead to it becoming the gold standard for diagnostic tests, before explaining the variance in clinical detection rate during a patient’s disease course and how this variati...
2021-03-3030 min
Talking TechniquesReproducibility in microbiomicsReturning to the contentious topic of the Reproducibility crisis – the inability of many study results to be replicated by different research groups or labs – this episode, supported by Zymo Research, zeros in on the topic within the field of microbiomics. Speaking to me about the topic is Raul Cano, Chief Scientific Officer at the BioCollective. Raul discusses the crisis and explains why it is prevalent in the emerging field of microbiomics before taking a look at the key role that microbiomics is beginning to play in the field of diagnostics, and how – if we make changes now – la...
2021-03-2527 min
Talking TechniquesHow can we achieve gender equality in STEM?This International Women’s Day takeover episode, with special guest host BioTechniques’ Senior Digital Editor Abi Sawyer, takes a look at the results of Future Science Group’s (London, UK) survey for the scientific community on gender equality and parity in STEM.Abi’s guests on this episode are the Vice President of Epidemiology and Clinical Evidence at IQVIA (NC, USA), Dr Christina Mack; the Executive Director for the Pharmaceutical Research Computing Center at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (MD, USA), Dr Ebere Onukwugha; a Lecturer, Science Communicator and Author based in Cardiff (UK), Dr Emma...
2021-03-0540 min
Talking TechniquesCOG-UK: sequencing SARS-CoV-2 and detecting the novel variant B.1.1.7This episode, supported by Tecan, takes a look at the role the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium (COG-UK) has played sequencing SARS-CoV-2 and surveying for COVID-19. To do this I speak to two key members of the consortium; Steve Paterson, Professor of genetics at the University of Liverpool and lead for the wastewater working group of COG-UK; and Josh Quick, Future Leaders Fellow at the University of Birmingham and lead at the COG-UK Sequencing working group.Steve discusses some of the techniques required to detect SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater, the challenges that such a vibrant sample can present...
2021-02-1834 min
Talking TechniquesCOVID-19 diagnostics: which test should you choose?RT-PCR, antigen and antibody testing; each has its niche and each has a flaw. But what are the key differences between each of these tests and what are the key things to consider when selecting the appropriate COVID-19 diagnostic for you? In this podcast, supported by Zymo Research, I speak to Senior Scientist in assay development Paolo Piatti in order to answer this question. Whether you are a concerned citizen looking for the best test to take to inform your behavior, or a researcher aiming to understand which testing systems you need to set up in...
2021-01-1521 min
Talking TechniquesAndy Tay: Forbes, awards and championing diversity in STEMIn this episode, I speak to a very special guest. Winner of this year's Future Science Future Star award, Andy Tay is a fantastic example of an early career researcher who has seized every opportunity with both hands and is not content to leave science as he found it. We discuss Andy's fascinating research into pain modulation using magnetic biomaterials, which got him included on the Forbes 30 under 30 list for 2019 and his work in science communication. Andy is a champion of diversity in STEM, something he embodies both in his science communication and in the organization...
2020-12-1020 min
Talking TechniquesHow has neuroimaging continued and flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic?In this episode, I speak to Michelle Itano, Director of the Neuroscience Center Microscopy Core at UNC-Chapel Hill and recent addition to the BioTechniques Editorial Board, about her work at the core. Michelle outlines how she has modified the core to make it possible for imaging research to continue throughout the pandemic, using a combination of specialist users and remote working techniques. Michelle provides her key learnings, from this process and last 7months, in keeping the core and her labs COVID-secure.We discuss some of the projects that have been able to continue throughout the pandemic...
2020-11-0624 min
Talking TechniquesThe reproducibility crisis: where are we now and how can we progress?In this episode I address the 'reproducibility crisis'. The concerning trend in the life sciences in which published papers and established principals are unable to be repeated by other researchers and, at times, even by the researchers who provided the initial results. To do this I speak to two researchers driving forward reproducibility in the life sciences, Marc Raphael from the United States Naval Research Laboratory, and Elizabeth Iorns, CEO of Science Exchange. Marc discusses his recent trial of independent verification and validation (IV&V) labs in a live science setting, highlighting the lessons learned from...
2020-10-2032 min
Talking TechniquesCRISPR: developing an equitable technology amidst a global pandemicIn this episode, I speak to Geoffrey Siwo about CRISPR and the challenges facing its development into a technique that can be applied equitably across the globe. Geoffrey talks about the importance of seizing the opportunity to influence the progress of the embryonic gene-editing technology for the better, before the data bias in genomic data and the disparity in researchers working on the technique leads to ingrained differences in the success of the application in different populations. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this development is also exposed.We also discuss Geoffrey's work, using CISPR...
2020-10-1224 min
Talking TechniquesHelicopter research and the challenges and misconceptions of research in AfricaIn this episode of Talking Techniques, BioTechniques Digital Editor Tristan Free speaks to three scientists each involved in the research landscape in Africa. The episode explores the challenges faced by researchers in Africa, both internally and from the rest of the scientific community. These include issues such as 'helicopter research' or 'research tourism', educating politicians on the importance of basic research and ensuring African researchers are represented at the forefront of life science research.Firstly Laura Boykin, CEO of the Cassava Virus Action Project, discusses the role of foreign researchers in Africa and how, too often, t...
2020-08-241h 04
Talking TechniquesBig data and COVID-19 part 2: Affecting policy and revealing riskIn part 2 of this series on the role of Big data in the response to COVID-19, I speak to Amitava Banerjee, Associate Professor in Clinical Data Science at the Institute of Health Informatics at University College London. Ami outlines the "OurRisk.CoV Calculator", designed to inform people of the threat that COVID-19 poses to them as a result of any existing conditions and factors such as age and gender, explaining the inspiration behind it and how he sourced and processed all the data required to do so. We also discuss the modeling study from that Ami and his team...
2020-08-1026 min
Talking TechniquesBig data and COVID-19 part 1: Facilitating and using collaborative, open dataIn the first of two episodes on the role of big data in fighting COVID-19, BioTechniques Digital Editor Tristan Free speaks to Guy Cochrane, Team Leader of Data Coordination and Archiving at the European Nucleotide Archive (Cambridge, UK). We discuss the challenges and importance of compiling and presenting the huge amount of data created regarding COVID-19 and explore how to make the most out of the data platforms available, such as Guy’s European COVID-19 data platform.Contents:Introducing the European COVID-19 data platform- 1min 35secChallenges of compiling data- 5 minsHow can researchers make their data collabora...
2020-08-1017 min
Talking TechniquesDNA vaccines: combating cancer and COVID-19In this special AACR episode, Digital Editor Tristan Free speaks to David Weiner, Director of the Vaccine & Immunotherapy Center at the Wistar Institute (PA, USA), about synthetic DNA and DNA vaccines. They discuss the exciting potential of DNA vaccines in the world of cancer research and delve into Weiner’s study, currently in human trial stages, to develop a DNA vaccine for COVID-19.Contents:Synthetic DNA and DNA vaccines- 50secA brief history of DNA vaccines- 1min 40secKey steps in DNA vaccine design- 3min 30secTargeting head and neck cancers- 5min 5secAdvantages and challenges of DNA vaccines- 7min...
2020-08-1022 min
Talking TechniquesThe sustainable lab: energy efficiency, glass vs plastic and human behaviorIn this episode, I speak to Neill Lane Chief Strategy Officer at Stirling Ultracold and Board member of My Green Lab. Neill explains how his low emission ultracold freezers have changed the industry and made a huge impact on sustainability in laboratories. We also discuss the good work he sees being done by My Green Lab and other institutions to improve sustainability, the gaps that he sees in energy efficiency in the lab and the small behaviors that we can change to make big differences in the environmental impact of your lab.You can find the...
2020-08-1024 min
Talking TechniquesUV LEDs for disinfection and potential protection from SARS-CoV-2In this episode, produced in association with Phoseon Technology, BioTechniques Digital Editor Tristan Free, speaks to Application Scientist Theresa Thompson and Strategy Director Jay Pasquantonio (both Phoseon Technology, OR, USA) about their UV LEDs and their disinfection abilities. We cover the best wavelengths for disrupting nucleotides and proteins, the challenges associated with some of these wavelengths, and the promising potential of UV LEDs to disinfect inorganic surfaces of SARS-CoV-2. Theresa and Jay also detail the safety procedures required while using this technology and deliver a clear warning against the irradiation of organic matter with UV LEDs....
2020-08-1030 min
Talking TechniquesRob Vries on organoids for drug discovery and the study of COVID-19BioTechniques Digital Editor, Tristan Free, speaks to Rob Vries, CEO of Hubrecht Organoid Technology otherwise known as the HUB. We explore the HUB's use of organoids for drug development and further study and improve the clinical treatments of diseases such as cystic fibrosis. After an analysis of the advantages of organoids over 2D cell cultures and animal models, we dive into how HUB's organoids are being used to investigate COVID-19*The Talking Techniques podcast is hosted and produced by Tristan Free for BioTechniques. We would love to here more from...
2020-08-1027 min
Talking TechniquesDonald Ingber: How COVID-19 is changing conservatism in life sciencesFollowing on from part 1 of this interview with the Founding Director of the Wyss Institute (MA, USA), Donald Ingber discusses the reasons he thinks organ-on-a-chip technologies are not more widely implemented in research. Expanding on the conservativism in the life sciences, Donald explores how the scientific response to the current COVID-19 pandemic is challenging entrenched modes of thinking and operating within the life sciences. Peer review and journal publication times are examined, with their flaws exposed and, vitally, suggestions for their improvement supplied. Donald also goes on to explain his thoughts on the interface of science and art and...
2020-08-1022 min
Talking TechniquesDonald Ingber on COVID-19, organ-on-a-chip technology and the Wyss InstituteIn the first instalment of this two-part episode with Donald Ingber, Founding Director of the Wyss Institute (MA, USA), we discuss his invention of organ-on-a-chip technology, how he is utilizing them in the fight against COVID-19 and the Wyss Institute's response to the pandemic. Donald touches on the performance of the much-discussed chloroquine in his lung-on-a-chip models. We also discuss the pros and cons of organ-on-a-chip technology verses organoids, exploring their use in combination, before Donald examines the possible replacement of animal models with organ-on-a-chip technology.*The Talking Techniques podcast is hosted and...
2020-08-0733 min
Research in Action | A podcast for faculty & higher education professionals on research design, methods, productivity & more[From the Archives] Ep 64: Dr. Kevin Ahern on Supporting Undergraduate ResearchersOn this episode, Katie is joined by Dr. Kevin Ahern, a Professor of Biochemistry/Biophysics who has taken a very non-traditional path to becoming a professor. A Beaver alum, Ahern received his Ph.D from OSU in 1986 and after post-doctoral work at UCSD, rejoined OSU as a business manager in 1989. Transitioning to the instructional ranks in 1995, Ahern served there until he was promoted from Senior Instructor to Professor in 2014, a rank he currently holds. Along the way, Ahern served as a scientific writer and editor with stints as contributing editor of Science Magazine, BioTechniques, and Genetic Engineering News. His...
2020-06-0831 min
Future Science GroupTalking Techniques | UV LEDs for disinfection and potential protection from SARS-CoV-2BioTechniques Digital Editor Tristan Free, speaks to Application Scientist Theresa Thompson and Strategy Director Jay Pasquantonio (both Phoseon Technology) about their UV LEDs. We cover the best wavelengths for disrupting nucleotides and proteins, the challenges associated with some of these wavelengths, and the promising potential of UV LEDs to disinfect inorganic surfaces of SARS-CoV-2. Theresa and Jay also detail the safety procedures required while using this technology and deliver a clear warning against the irradiation of organic matter with UV LEDs.
2020-04-2430 min
Future Science GroupTalking Techniques | Microbiome studies; big data analysis, LCMS and at-home fecal sample collectionIn this episode BioTechniques Digital Editor, Tristan Free speaks to Annie Evans, Director of R&D and David Foster, Vice President of Data and Informatics at Metabolon about the latest developments in microbiome studies, including big data analysis, LCMS, alpha diversity and at-home fecal sample collection.
2020-03-2331 min
Future Science GroupTalking Techniques | Paul Brennan: repairing nerve damage and addressing Alzheimer'sIn this episode BioTechniques Digital Editor, Tristan Free, speaks to Paul Brennan, President and CEO of NervGen, about the company's new technique, currently under development, for repairing nerve damage and it's potential for treating Alzheimer's. Paul also covers some of the gaps in Alzheimer's research and wades in on the Tau vs Amyloid Beta debate.
2020-02-1725 min
Future Science GroupTalking Techniques | Andrea Brand on neural stem cells, brain cancer and TADA!Talking at ASCB 2019 in Washington, Andrea Brand, Head of the Gurdon Institute's Wellcome labs, and BioTechniques Digital Editor Tristan Free, discuss Andrea's work in neural stem cells and brain cancers. Andrea's novel technique for analyzing proteins binding throughout the genome, TADA, which can be employed in live animals, is also explored alongside the integration of genetic and imaging techniques for successful studies.
2020-02-0417 min
Future Science GroupTalking Techniques | Rob Knight on precision medicine, scientific heroes and sage adviceRob Knight speaks to BioTechniques Managing Editor, Joseph Martin, about the upcoming BioTechniques Online Event: Advancing Precision Medicine 2019, his scientific hero and gives advice for early career researchers.
2019-10-0705 min
Future Science GroupTalking Techniques | Greg Michelotti on metabolomics, precision medicine and frailty biomarkersBioTechniques Digital and Assistant Editors Abigail Sawyer and Tristan Free talk to Greg Mitchelotti of Metabolon about metabolomics, its potential applications in precision medicine and the new $4 million research collaboration with the Canadian Longitudinal Study of Aging and other Canadian institutions to identify biomarkers for frailty.
2019-08-0217 min
Future Science GroupTalking Tech News | Theo Roth on CRISPR, CAR-T and gene editing ethicsBioTechniques Digital and Assistant Editors Abigail Sawyer and Tristan Free talk to Theo Roth from the University of California San Francisco Marson Lab (CA, USA). Having recently made headlines for his work in T-cell engineering, Theo takes us through his groundbreaking CRISPR research, its potential impacts in CAR-T cell therapy and further afield, whilst also tackling the evolving ethics in gene editing and the potential benefits of using ssDNA over dsDNA for CRISPR techniques.
2019-06-2127 min
Future Science GroupTalking Tech News | Antibodies: will their star continue to rise?Abigail Sawyer and Tristan Free, from the BioTechniques digital team, speak to Head of Open Access Publishing at Future Science Group, Francesca Lake about antibodies: their advantages and flaws, pitfalls in their use and selecting the right antibodies for an experiment.
2019-06-0712 min
Future Science GroupTalking Tech News | Cerebral Organoids: Past Present FutureAbigail Sawyer and Tristan Free from the BioTechniques editorial team talk to Assistant Editor, Jenny Straiton about her recent Tech news piece on Cerebral Organoids and the history of neuroscience.
2019-04-0128 min