This is a Radio Cherwell original podcast

Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedinska

Listen Live: radiocherwell.com

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About this episode of Science & Beyond

In this episode, I’m joined by an Oxford master's student at the cutting edge of medical research. We dive into the fascinating world of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) — a revolutionary discovery by Nobel prize-winning Shinya Yamanaka that turned the scientific world on its head.

By introducing a specific set of transcription factors, ordinary somatic cells like skin cells can be reprogrammed into stem cells capable of transforming into virtually any cell type — including neurons. Together, we explore the different types of stem cells — from totipotent to pluripotent to multipotent — and their unique roles in regenerative medicine and neuroscience.

Our guest shares insights from her research with neurones, and how it could contribute to palliative care. We also compare the path to medical school in America vs. the UK, and how she found herself in Oxford, chasing answers in one of the most complex frontiers of modern medicine.

Whether you're a budding scientist or just curious about where the future of medicine is heading, this conversation brings stem cell science down to earth — and might just blow your mind.