Stem Cell Biology and Longevity Research with Dr. Thomas Rando

Today’s guest is Dr. Thomas Rando, Professor, Neurology; Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, and a pioneer in stem cell biology and the biology of aging. Dr. Rando is the Director of the Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the co-founder and Chair of the Board of Directors at Fountain Therapeutics. In today’s episode, he shares information surrounding cell cycle, parabiosis, and replacement therapy.

Dr. Rando begins by explaining why the cell cycle is important and the place of aging cells in the world of cell cycle. He explains the quiescent states of cells and how heterochronic parabiosis has been tested on animals to determine if cells in a younger animal can be used to activate those in an older animal. He also discusses how three factors impact aging: genetics, diet, and exercise.

In this episode, you’ll learn the meaning and importance of cell cycle and parabiosis and how they both relate to aging.

Episode Highlights:

Dr. Rando’s transition from neurology to stem cell biology The importance of cell cycle Why aging cells do not repair tissues Exploring the quiescent state How heterochronic parabiosis works Chronic inflammation in older people Does exercise benefit the tissues in the body? The connection between exercise and replacement therapy The relation between diet and longevity What are ketogenic diets? Dr. Rando’s thoughts on supplementation The future of stem cell therapy Can bone marrow be used to rejuvenate older people? Can stem cell therapy treat Alzheimer's disease? Transitioning from an academic to a founder

Quotes:

“Why is it that we heal our injuries and wounds less well as we age?”

“The older we get, the more difficult it is to activate these cells out of that state. And you can imagine that if a cell is dormant, and you can't wake it up, it's not going to do very well in terms of repairing tissues.”

“There's no free lunch here. What benefits the old animal hurts the young animal.”

“The only reason why a species survives and thrives and continues is because of reproduction.”

“No one wants to calorically restrict for their whole life. I mean, no one wants to go through their life eating 30%.”

“Anything that we can do to find a healthy diet that is palatable and sustainable, and prevents obesity will be a good thing.”

Links:

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Fountain Therapeutics