Season 2 Episode 6 | The Science of T-Cells and Cancer| Dr. Miguel Reina-Campos, Postdoctoral Researcher UCSD, Tissue Immune Networks

"The Science Of" podcast episode features Dr. Miguel Reina Campos discussing his journey from Spain to the U.S., focusing on T cells and cancer. Dr. Campos explains the role of tissue-resident memory T cells in fighting diseases, emphasizing their importance in solid tumors. He highlights the impact of hormones like testosterone on immune cell function and the potential of spatial transcriptomics in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Campos also discusses the challenges of studying immune cells in tissues and the future of cancer treatment, including personalized immunotherapies and mRNA vaccination. He advises aspiring scientists to stay resilient. Introduction to the Science of Podcast SeriesThe students introduce the podcast, emphasizing curiosity and the exploration of various scientific topics.The podcast is hosted by students from the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA and the Elementary Institute of Science.Partnerships include the UCSD Moores Cancer Center and Cloudcast MediaThe program is provided by SchoolCAST, a podcast and curriculum program from Cloudcast Media.The students welcome listeners and introduce the episode's focus on T cells and cancer.Co-hosts Sasha, Max, and the gues, Dr. Miguel Reina Campos, are introduced.Dr. Miguel Reina Campos' Background and JourneyDr. Reina Campos shares his background, starting from his birth in Barcelona, Spain, and his education in molecular biology and biochemistry.He discusses his decision to study in Germany during the 2008 economic crisis and his subsequent move to the U.S. for a master's degree at Scripps Research Institute.His interest in cancer biology and the biology of cancer cells is highlighted.Dr. Reina Campos explains the complexity of tumors and the role of non-tumor cells in tumor growth.He discusses the importance of the immune system in fighting cancer and the impact of immunotherapy.Rapid Fire Questions and Personal InterestsDr. Reina Campos answers rapid-fire questions about his career and personal interests.He shares his initial career interests, including a desire to be a lifeguard and a professional basketball player.His favorite surf spot in San Diego is revealed to be Horseshoe.Dr. Reina Campos discusses the most fascinating discoveries of his career, including the plasticity of tumor cells and the diversity of immune cells in different tissues.He mentions his hobby of paragliding and describes a typical day in his lab, which is chaotic and filled with various tasks.Tissue Resident Memory T Cells and Their Role in DiseaseDr. Reina Campos explains the concept of tissue resident memory T cells and their importance in fighting diseases.He describes how these T cells live in tissues and protect against infections and tumors.The challenges of enhancing anti-tumor responses driven by T cells are discussed.The role of memory in the immune system and its impact on disease protection is explained.The influence of hormones like testosterone on the immune system, especially in the context of cancer, is explored.Gender Differences in Immune Responses and Cancer SusceptibilityDr. Reina Campos discusses the differences in T cell function between genders and its impact on disease susceptibility.He explains the role of the thymus in T cell education and how testosterone affects it.The challenges of studying immune cells within tissues and the use of spatial transcriptomics are highlighted.The potential for using spatial transcriptomics to develop new treatments for patients is discussed.The importance of early diagnosis and prevention in cancer treatment is emphasized.Future Directions in Cancer Treatment and Emerging RisksDr. Reina Campos speculates on the future of cancer treatment and the potential for eradicating certain cancers.He discusses the role of diagnostics in preventing disease and the impact of diet on immune cell function.The potential impact of microplastics on immune responses and disease is mentioned.The use of personalized immunotherapies and the potential of mRNA vaccination in cancer treatment are explored.The high cost and limited accessibility of cellular therapies are noted.Advice for Aspiring Scientists and Contact InformationDr. Reina Campos advises aspiring scientists to stay resilient and persevere in their careers.He provides contact information for those interested in learning more about his work.The episode concludes with the hosts thanking the audience and promoting future episodes of the Science of Podcast series."The Science Of" is a student-produced podcast. The team members are Kelsey Lewis, Evan Sosa, Max Arola, August Ou, Danielle-Elizabeth Mensah-Baah, Zahraa Munaim, Josue Castillo, Sasha Goldschmied, and Noor Munaim. The students who appeared on this episode and/or produced the episode are Danielle-Elizabeth Mensah-Baah, Zahraa Munaim, Max Arola, Sasha Goldschmied. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas from Cloudcast Media. About Cloudcast MediaAs the national leader in local ...