Dr. Kotaro Sasaki is an Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. In this episode, he discusses how his lab uses human pluripotent stem cells to model germ cell development and endocrine organs such as the testis and adrenal gland. He highlights progress toward in vitro gametogenesis, including generating spermatogonial-like cells and reconstructing testicular environments, as well as recent advances in building adrenal organoids with zonal architecture. He also explores the scientific, translational, and ethical challenges of creating functional human gametes, and emphasizes the importance of developmental biology in guiding stem cell-based approaches.
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Stage-Specific Cell Competition – Cell competition in gastruloids is stage-specific and driven by relative p53 levels during pluripotency exit.
Modeling Pediatric Brain Tumors – Scientists have enabled robust generation and drug testing of patient-derived pediatric brain tumor organoids.
Immune Reprogramming in Heart Failure – Engineered dendritic cells reduce cardiac fibrosis and improve heart function by modulating immune responses.
Overcoming Hypoxia in Islets – Inhibiting zinc transport enhances stem cell–derived islet survival and function by improving angiogenesis and hypoxia resistance.
Photo Reference: Courtesy of Dr. Kotaro Sasaki.
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