Episodes
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In this episode of the Neuron Regeneration podcast, we step outside the lab and into a topic that's just as critical as the science itself—funding. While most episodes focus on the cutting-edge discoveries behind neuron regeneration, today, we’re talking about how those discoveries can make it into the clinic to help people.
We’re joined by Tom Kalil, a leader in innovation and science policy who has spent decades helping researchers turn high-risk, high-reward ideas into reality. With an incredible background that includes working in the White House for Presidents Clinton and Obama, and now leading Renaissance Philanthropy, Tom shares powerful insights about how philanthropy is driving groundbreaking scientific advancements.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Role of Philanthropy in Scientific Innovation:
Tom Kalil highlights the importance of philanthropic funding in advancing high-risk, high-reward research, particularly for early-stage ideas that traditional funding sources often overlook.Focused Research Organizations (FROs):
An introduction to FROs—time-bound, nonprofit entities designed to tackle specific, transformative scientific challenges—and how they address gaps between academic research and venture-backed startups.Breakthrough Technologies in Neuroscience:
Discussion of innovative projects such as brain mapping through expansion microscopy and chip-sized focused ultrasound devices for minimally invasive neurological treatments.The “Why Now” Narrative:
Strategies for researchers to craft compelling stories about why new capabilities or discoveries make this the perfect moment to invest in their work.Finding the Right Philanthropists:
Practical advice on identifying and engaging donors, with an emphasis on understanding the heterogeneity of philanthropists’ interests, priorities, and decision-making processes.Community-Driven Research Agendas:
The benefits of creating collective research agendas to unify scientists, attract large-scale funding, and identify projects that can move entire fields forward.Overcoming Funding Challenges:
Insights into navigating funding obstacles, including limited data availability, tech transfer issues, and the competitive landscape of scientific grants.The Future of High-Impact Funding Models:
Exploration of milestone-based payments, prize competitions like XPRIZE, and the potential role of ARPA-H in supporting bold, high-risk neuroscience research.Lessons from Successful Philanthropic Projects:
Examples of impactful philanthropic investments, such as accelerating cancer research through biomarker development and reducing the cost of brain mapping by orders of magnitude.Stay connected:
Connect with Tom Kalil:
Websites: renaissancephilanthropy.org
Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of the Neuron Regeneration Podcast. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our newsletter at NeuronRegeneration.com.
Social Media: Follow us on @neuronregeneration to join the conversation and help us spread the word about neural regeneration breakthroughs.
Leave us a review: If you enjoyed this episode and are excited about the mission of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and advance the conversation around neuron healing
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Welcome to another News and Abstract Reading episode of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast, aimed at providing listeners with a convenient way to stay up to date on the latest in neural regeneration research, innovations, and advancements.
Papers and Topics Discussed:
Implantation of biomimetic polydopamine nanocomposite scaffold promotes optic nerve regeneration through modulating inhibitory microenvironment
Published in the Journal of Nanobiotechnology, this study presents a biomimetic GA@PDA scaffold designed to promote optic nerve regeneration by reducing oxidative stress and modulating inflammation. Tested in a rat model, the scaffold enhanced retinal ganglion cell survival and axonal regeneration, suggesting potential applications for optic nerve injuries and possibly other neuroinflammatory conditions like stroke. The Effect of Rosuvastatin on Facial Nerve Regeneration After Facial Nerve Injury: An Experimental Animal Study
Published in the American Journal of Otolaryngology, this study examines rosuvastatin’s role in enhancing facial nerve recovery in rats with traumatic paralysis. Combined with methylprednisolone, rosuvastatin significantly improved nerve function and structure, suggesting its potential for treating facial nerve injuries.
Clickable immune-microenvironment modulated hydrogels for spinal cord injury repair
Published in Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, this study presents MP-enriched injectable hydrogels that promote nerve regeneration and functional recovery in spinal cord injuries by modulating the immune-inflammatory environment. These findings highlight the hydrogels’ potential for SCI repair and other neuroinflammatory conditions.
Olfactory receptors in neural regeneration in the central nervous system
Published in Neural Regeneration Research, this review explores olfactory receptors as potential targets for enhancing neural regeneration in the central nervous system. Insights from olfactory neuron regeneration suggest new therapeutic approaches for CNS injuries, including spinal cord injury and Alzheimer’s disease.
Alginate Use in Orthopedics and Peripheral Nerve Repair: A Systematic Review
Published in Cureus, this review examines alginate's applications in orthopedics and peripheral nerve repair. The findings suggest that alginate supports Schwann cell migration and reduces scar tissue, potentially aiding nerve regeneration and offering promise for orthopedic and nerve repair therapies.
Stay Connected:
Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of the Neuron Regeneration Podcast. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our email newsletter on this page.
Social Media: Follow @neuronregeneration on Instagram for daily informative videos on neurodegenerative diseases, neuro traumas, prevention, and regeneration.
Leave us a review: If you enjoyed this episode and are excited about the mission of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and advance the conversation around neuron healing!
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Episodes manquant?
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In this insightful episode of the Neuron Regeneration Podcast, we explore the cutting-edge research of Dr. Reggie Edgerton, a pioneer in spinal cord injury rehabilitation and neuromodulation for multiple forms of neural damage. With over four decades of groundbreaking work at UCLA, Dr. Edgerton has made revolutionary strides in helping individuals with spinal cord injuries regain motor control through different forms of neuromodulation: electrical stimulation as well as pharmacological neuromodulation.
He also discusses the broader applications of neuromodulation, including treatments for cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative conditions. This conversation delves into how neuromodulation taps into the body’s innate neuroplasticity, offering new hope for those with paralysis or neurodegenerative diseases.
Dr.Edgerton’s research also addresses the potential for combining neuromodulation with other emerging therapies, such as stem cell treatments, to further accelerate functional recovery and even promote neuron healing and regeneration. With a focus on both animal studies and human trials, Dr. Edgerton shares exciting findings and the promising future of neuromodulation in enhancing motor recovery, organ function, and more.
Key Topics Discussed:
What is Neuromodulation? Dr. Edgerton defines neuromodulation and explains how targeted electrical and chemical stimuli can alter nerve activity and physiological states in patients with neurological disorders.
Spinal Cord Injury Recovery: A deep dive into the pioneering experiments on animals and humans, using neuromodulation to restore motor function and voluntary control in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Central Pattern Generators and Automaticity: Insights into how central pattern generators in the spinal cord contribute to the automatic control of movement, even in the absence of brain signals, and how neuromodulation activates these networks
Applications Beyond Spinal Cord Injury: Discussion on the expanding use of neuromodulation for cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative conditions, with remarkable results in restoring function.
Transcutaneous vs. Implanted Electrical Neuromodulation: Comparison of the non-invasive transcutaneous stimulation approach versus surgically implanted devices, and why transcutaneous techniques offer a practical, accessible solution that still delivers great results.
Activity-Dependent Plasticity: The importance of combining neuromodulation with movement training to maximize neuroplasticity and functional recovery.
Regeneration and Healing Potential: Dr. Edgerton touches on the potential for neuromodulation to not only restore function but also facilitate the regeneration of damaged neural pathways.
Future Directions and Challenges: The episode closes with a discussion of the future of neuromodulation research, including challenges like funding and the need for more clinical trials to bring these therapies into wider use. Dr.Edgerton also emphasizes the importance of integrating neuromodulation with other emerging therapies for maximum impact.
Stay connected:
Connect with Dr. Reggie Edgerton:
Websites:
https://www.ranchoresearch.org/team/reggie-edgerton
https://edgertonlab.ibp.ucla.edu/
Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of the Neuron Regeneration Podcast. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our newsletter at NeuronRegeneration.com.
Social Media: Follow us on @neuronregeneration to join the conversation and help us spread the word about neural regeneration breakthroughs.
Leave us a review: If you enjoyed this episode and are excited about the mission of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and advance the conversation around neuron healing!
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This third episode of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast is the News and Abstract reading episode of the show.
We will frequently produce these episodes aimed at providing listeners with a convenient way to stay up to date on the latest in neural regeneration research, innovations, and advancements.
Papers and Topics Discussed:P75 ECD 10 FC and Neonatal Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (NHIE)
Published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, this study examines how a recombinant fusion protein, P75 ECD-FC, reverses neurological deficits and promotes neuronal regeneration in rats with neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (NHIE). The research highlights its potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, positioning it as a potential therapy in Stroke.Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Exosomes and Parkinson’s Disease
This paper from the Journal of Nanobiotechnology discusses how umbilical cord blood-derived exosomes (UCB EXOS) show promise in treating Parkinson’s Disease in a mouse model. The study suggests that UCB EXOS could alleviate motor dysfunction, oxidative stress, and other symptoms associated with neurodegenerative disorders.Concentrated Growth Factor (CGF) and Facial Nerve Crush Injury
A study from the Journal of Stomatology explores the use of Concentrated Growth Factor (CGF), a PRP-derived substance, to accelerate recovery in facial nerve injuries. The results showed faster recovery in nerve function and reduced fibrosis, highlighting its potential as a cost-effective treatment for peripheral nerve injuries.Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
New Insights Into Myelin Regeneration
From the Journal of Clinical Medicine, this narrative review article examines how ESWT may aid in spinal cord regeneration and reduce spasticity in patients with SCI. While the research is still in early stages, it shows promise as a safe and innovative treatment for SCI-related motor and sensory dysfunction.
Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News reports on recent discoveries about the protein C1QL1 and its role in promoting myelin regeneration. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for demyelinating diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), which damage the protective coating of nerve cells. Stay Connected: Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of the Neuron Regeneration Podcast. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our email newsletter on this page. Social Media: Follow @neuronregeneration on Instagram for daily informative videos on neurodegenerative diseases, neuro traumas, prevention, and regeneration. Leave us a review: If you enjoyed this episode and are excited about the mission of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and advance the conversation around neuron healing! -
In this fascinating episode, we dive into the groundbreaking research of Dr. Michael Levin of Tufts University, an expert in bioelectricity and its implications for regeneration, cognition, and cell communication. Dr. Levin challenges conventional wisdom around neuron regeneration, limb regrowth, and the body’s healing processes by leveraging the power of bioelectric signals.
From exploring the remarkable plasticity of cells, to manipulating bioelectric fields for complex tissue regeneration, this episode takes a deep dive into cutting-edge science with real-world applications.
Key Topics Discussed:The Role of Bioelectricity in Cellular Communication: Dr. Levin explains how bioelectric signals serve as a communication system among cells (far beyond nerve-based communication), allowing them to work collectively, much like a computer’s software.
Bioelectricity Beyond Neurons: Beyond brain function, bioelectric signals regulate complex biological processes, from regenerating limbs and organs to controlling the body’s shape/morphology.
Groundbreaking Regenerative Experiments:
“Picasso Tadpole” Experiment: Scrambling facial features in tadpoles, which still develop into normal frogs, highlighting cells' inherent remarkable problem-solving abilities and the concept that morphology is not coded in the DNA.
Planarian Regeneration: Altering bioelectric signals to induce flatworms to grow extra heads, showing how cells store and act on information about body structure.
Frog Limb Regeneration: Using bioelectricity to stimulate regrowth of amputated frog legs without manipulating genetics.
Implications for Human Health: The potential applications for neuron regeneration, spinal cord injury treatment, and even cancer therapy are discussed, emphasizing the need to "crack the bioelectric code."
Future of Bioelectricity in Medicine: Dr. Levin shares the future of bioelectric medicine, his ongoing work in mammals, and the roadmap for advancing this technology for human clinical use.
Stay connected:
Connect with Dr. Michael Levin: Website: https://drmichaellevin.org/
Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of the Neuron Regeneration Podcast. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our newsletter at NeuronRegeneration.com.
Social Media: Follow us on @neuronregeneration to join the conversation and help us spread the word about neural regeneration breakthroughs.
Leave us a review: If you enjoyed this episode and are excited about the mission of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and advance the conversation around neuron healing!
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In this heartfelt and inspiring inaugural episode, host Jarod Carter shares the deeply personal story behind the creation of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast and the Neuron Regeneration community. As the father of twins diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Jarod opens up about the challenges his family has faced and the ongoing fight to reverse the devastating effects of neurodegenerative diseases. He explains his mission to accelerate breakthroughs in neuron regeneration and the hope of finding treatments that can fully heal and repair damaged neurons—work that could impact millions of lives worldwide.
This episode sets the stage for what's to come on the podcast, outlining the vision for the future and what listeners can expect in terms of guest experts, research discussions, and more.
Looking Ahead:This episode introduces the podcast's mission, but the journey is just beginning! In Episode 2, we interview Dr. Michael Levin, an expert in bioelectricity from Tufts University. Dr. Levin will share his groundbreaking research on using bioelectric signals to regenerate limbs and repair damaged brains, paving the way for future therapies in humans. Don’t miss this exciting episode!
Resources Mentioned:Website: Visit NeuronRegeneration.com to join the community, subscribe to the newsletter, and stay updated on the latest developments in neuron regeneration.
Contact: Have guest suggestions or want to get involved? Email us at [email protected].
Stay Connected:Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of the Neuron Regeneration Podcast. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our newsletter at NeuronRegeneration.com
Social Media: Follow us on @neuronregeneration to join the conversation and help us spread the word about neural regeneration breakthroughs.
Leave us a review: If you enjoyed this episode and are excited about the mission of The Neuron Regeneration Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and advance the conversation around neuron healing!
