By Ariane Tsai, C2ST Intern, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Institute for Genomic Biology

In a world of modern science, few discoveries hold as much promise and intrigue as stem cells. With their remarkable ability to regenerate and repair tissues, stem cell therapy has revolutionized medical treatments ranging from liver disease to leukemia¹. But have you ever wondered how these tiny yet potent entities take on these seemingly impossible tasks? Taking it one step further, how can two stem cells with the same characteristics regenerate different organs (i.e., one becoming a liver cell and another skin cell)? To understand how the cells go from stem cells to their final state, we will follow the journey of three stem cells in finding their way to fulfill their cellular fate.

  Continue reading “Diary of a Memory T cell: A Tale of Three Stem Cells”

By Bianca Loglisci, C2ST Intern, Loyola University

You’re likely familiar with the frowned-upon chemical compound carbon dioxide, CO2– a dangerous greenhouse gas that when released into the atmosphere in large amounts can drastically escalate the effects of climate change. But did you know that CO2 can be helpful in certain conservation efforts? Scientists have recently discovered and started implementing a new method of controlling invasive carp species in freshwater ecosystems. In some cases, CO2 may not be so bad after all!

Continue reading “Closeup on Carp: CO2 for Ecological Innovation”

By Sneha Das, C2ST Intern, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Clinical trials have become a widely recognized household term, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Health Organization defines clinical trials as research that evaluates the human health outcomes of new tests and treatments like medicines, vaccines, medical devices, and surgical or behavioral procedures. This blog will take you on a fascinating journey of how clinical trials have developed over time.

Continue reading “Ships to Shots – The Remarkable Evolution of Clinical Trials”