The Future of Everything

February is American Heart Month, and in light of that, we’re bringing back an episode about a group here at Stanford Engineering that’s developing 3D printing methods for human tissues and organs, a process known as bioprinting. Motivated in part by the critical need for heart transplants, Mark Skylar-Scott and his team are specifically working to bioprint tissues of the human heart. It may sound like science fiction, but it’s actually just another example of the groundbreaking research we do here. We hope you’ll take another listen and be inspired by the possibilities.

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Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Mark A. Skylar-Scott
• Mark’s Lab: The Skylar-Scott Lab | Stanford Medicine

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces guest, Mark Skylar-Scott, a professor of bioengineering at Stanford University.

(00:02:06) What is Bioprinting?

The role of cells and biopolymers in printing functional biological structures.

(00:03:31) Bioprinting a Heart

The potential of printing organs on demand, especially heart tissue.

(00:04:38) Obtaining Cells for Bioprinting

Using stem cells derived from the patient's own cells to create heart tissue.

(00:06:29) Creating Multiple Cell Types for the Heart

The challenge of printing eleven different heart cell types with precision.

(00:08:50) The Scaffold for 3D Printing

The support material used in 3D printing and how it’s later removed.

(00:10:10) Cell Migration and Organ Formation

How cells organize themselves to form functional heart tissue.

(00:12:08) Growing a Full-Sized Heart

Whether they’re printing full-sized hearts or starting with smaller organs.

(00:13:34) Avoiding Overgrowth Risks

The role of bioreactors in shaping the early stages of the organ.

(00:14:57) Scaling Up Cell Production

The need to generate massive numbers of cells for experimentation.

(00:18:32) The Challenge of Vascularization

Creating a blood vessel network to supply oxygen and nutrients.

(00:22:35) Ethical Considerations in Bioprinting

Consent, stem cell sourcing, and the broader ethical landscape.

(00:26:04) The Timeline for Bioprinted Organs

The long timeline for bioprinted organs to reach clinical use.

(00:27:24) The State of the Field & Collaboration

The collaborative, competitive biofabrication field and its rapid progress.

(00:28:20) Conclusion

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Welcome to Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything, the podcast that delves into groundbreaking research and innovations that are shaping the world and inventing the future. The University has a long history of doing work to positively impact the world and it's a joy to share about the people who are doing this work, what motivates them, and how their work is creating a better future for everybody. Join us every Friday for new episodes featuring insightful conversations with Stanford faculty and to discover how Stanford's research is transforming tomorrow's world.

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Guest Kristy Red-Horse is a biologist who specializes in coronary artery development and disease. She says the latest advances in treatment of blockages could do away with invasive bypass surgeries in favor of growing new arteries using molecules like CXCL12, known to promote artery regrowth in mice. Red-Horse explains how leaps forward in medical imaging, expanding atlases of gene expressions, and new drug delivery mechanisms could someday lead to trials in humans. But, before that day can arrive, much work remains, as Red-Horse tells host Russ Altman in this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Kristy Red-Horse
• Kristy’s Lab: Red-Horse Lab

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces Kristy Red-Horse, a professor of biology at Stanford University.

(00:03:46) Replacing Open-Heart Surgery

Why bypass surgery is invasive, risky, and requires long recovery.

(00:05:09) Challenges in Artery Growth

The difficulty of targeting artery growth with medical interventions.

(00:07:32) The Role of Collateral Arteries

Definition and function of collateral arteries as natural bypass.

(00:09:37) Triggers for Natural Bypass Formation

Genetic factors that may influence the growth of these bypass arteries.

(00:10:49) Unique Properties of Coronary Arteries

Challenges of ensuring artificial growth replicates natural artery function.

(00:13:04) The Discovery of CXCL12

A key molecule that stimulates collateral artery formation.

(00:16:16) Precise Artery Growth Control

The results of targeted CXCL12 injections into mice hearts.

(00:17:32) CXCL12’s Overlooked Role

The molecule’s role in the immune system and stem cells.

(00:20:27) Guinea Pigs and Heart Attack Resistance

How guinea pigs naturally develop collaterals.

(00:23:19) Preventing Heart Disease

Using artery growth treatments to target early-stage coronary disease.

(00:25:25) Breakthroughs in Imaging Technology

New technology that enables identification of collateral growth pathways.

(00:27:07) How Collateral Arteries Form

The two mechanisms in which new arteries form.

(00:28:48) The Future of Medical Artery Growth

The possibility of eliminating bypass surgery with targeted artery growth.

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Materials scientist and physicist Guosong Hong is an expert in getting materials to do remarkable things. Recently, he and collaborators used a common food dye found in snack chips to turn living tissue transparent, allowing light to penetrate through skin and muscle. Hong is now working to realize a new age of medical imaging that lets doctors see deep into the body – without surgery. It’s a miracle of physics but it could change medicine, Hong tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: ​​Guosong Hong
• Guosong's Lab: THE HONG LAB

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces Guosong Hong, an expert in physics, material science, and biology from Stanford University.

(00:02:52) Material Science Meets Neuroscience

How Guosong’s research blends nanomaterials and brain science.

(00:04:01) Why Tissue Isn’t Transparent

The challenge of light penetration in biological tissues.

(00:05:55) A New Approach to Tissue Clearing

The physics behind tissue transparency and refractive index manipulation.

(00:08:57) UV Light and Transparency

How manipulating UV absorption can align refractive indexes.

(00:11:17) First Experiments and Results

Initial tests that demonstrate successful tissue clearing.

(00:13:19) Applications in Medicine

The potential of transparent tissues in dermatology and medical imaging.

(00:15:36) Testing on Live Tissue

The results of testing transparency techniques on live mice.

(00:19:30) Transparency in Nature

How some species have naturally transparent tissue.

(00:20:52) Human Eye and Protein Transparency

The unique proteins that keep our lenses clear using similar physics.

(00:23:24) Wireless Light Inside the Body

The development of ultrasound-activated light sources for tissue imaging.

(00:26:56) Precision of Ultrasound Light

How precisely ultrasound can trigger tiny particles to emit light.

(00:29:14) Conclusion

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With the tremendous amount of information available to us today, the ability to discern what’s reliable from what’s not is crucial to combating the spread of misinformation. In 2023, we sat down with Jonathan Osborne, an expert in science education to talk about the tools our students (and really all of us!) need to critically evaluate science news and information. We hope you’ll tune into this episode again to hear about the three valuable skills Osborne says we should be teaching our students so they can debunk scientific misinformation.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Jonathan Osborne

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces Jonathan Osborne, a professor of education at Stanford University.

(00:01:50) State of Science Education

Current education's failure to prepare students for misinformation.

(00:03:46) Internet-Age Challenges

Why younger generations struggle with evaluating credibility online.

(00:05:07) Tools for Evaluating Claims

Three key questions to assess scientific credibility.

(00:08:10) Teaching Credibility

Using interactive challenges to teach critical thinking.

(00:10:46) Attitudes Toward Science

Flaws in the way science education is currently taught to youth.

(00:14:28) Barriers to Reform

Resistance to curriculum changes and systemic challenges.

(00:19:02) Scientific Argumentation

The importance of teaching reasoning behind scientific discoveries.

(00:24:03) Modes of Scientific Argumentation

Deductive, abductive, and inductive reasoning as key scientific methods.

(00:25:45) Inspiring Curiosity in Science

Framing science as imaginative, evidence-backed ideas to engage students.

(00:28:06) Adapting Science Standards

The need for flexible standards to address evolving education challenges.

(00:29:57) Conclusion

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Oceanographer Kristen Davis, an authority on ocean physics and climate sustainability, discusses the growing excitement around seaweed and kelp as tools to combat climate change. Like trees on land, these underwater plants use photosynthesis to absorb carbon dioxide and convert it into organic matter. When they die, some of that carbon may sink to the ocean depths. However, the science is still evolving and there’s a lot we don’t yet understand about how seaweed farming might impact carbon sequestration. Davis shares insights into the ongoing research and its promise on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast with host Russ Altman.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Kristen Davis

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces guest Kristen Davis, a professor of oceans at Stanford University.

(00:03:20) Understanding the CO2 Problem

The origins of the CO2 problem and its connection to ocean dynamics.

(00:06:11) Seaweed as a Solution

Seaweed's potential as a carbon sink and its comparison to terrestrial trees.

(00:09:02) Challenges in Seaweed Cultivation

Ecological impacts and practical challenges of scaling seaweed farming.

(00:12:00) How a Seaweed-Based Solution Works

Logistics for seaweed farming nearshore and in deep ocean settings.

(00:15:08) Genetic Advances in Seaweed Farming

Bioengineering seaweed for resilience and optimizing carbon capture.

(00:16:43) Seaweed Beyond Carbon Storage

Potential uses of seaweed for biofuel, food, and reducing methane.

(00:20:20) Internal Waves in Ocean Dynamics

Internal waves and their role in mixing and nutrient distribution.

(00:24:18) Currents vs. Internal Waves

The relationship between ocean currents and internal waves.

(00:26:47) Measurement Technologies

Innovations in fiber-optic sensors for mapping internal waves.

(00:30:22) A Global Wave Map

The vision for a comprehensive, global study of internal wave dynamics.

(00:31:22) Conclusion

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Nephrologist Manjula Tamura discusses the downsides of kidney dialysis, especially for old or frail patients. Her field has set its sights on offering alternatives, including supportive medical management without dialysis, dialysis in increments, wearable artificial kidneys, and transplanted kidneys from genetically modified pigs – in addition to advances in preventive care that can help humans avoid kidney failure in the first place. Dialysis can extend life, she says, but it is a lifestyle change. The goal is to ensure that every patient’s choice aligns with their values and life goals, Tamura tells host Russ Altman in this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Manjula Kurella Tamura

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces guest, Manjula Tamura, a professor of medicine and nephrology at Stanford University Medical School.

(00:02:58) The Kidney’s Vital Role

The kidney’s role and why its failure is life-threatening.

(00:04:51) Causes of Kidney Failure

The leading causes of kidney failure in developed countries.

(00:07:58) Kidney Transplantation

The feasibility, barriers, and supply challenges of kidney transplantation.

(00:09:50) The Dialysis Process

How hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis work and patient experiences.

(00:14:07) The Evolution of Dialysis Treatment

The history of dialysis and how Medicare’s expansion influenced its use.

(00:18:48) Study Design: Emulating Clinical Trials

Using VA electronic health records to simulate trials on dialysis.

(00:25:31) Findings: Survival vs. Time at Home

The trade-offs between extended survival and reduced time at home.

(00:27:02) Quality of Life and Dialysis

Measuring quality of life impacts through electronic health records.

(00:30:32) The Future of Kidney Treatments

Innovations like xenotransplantation and wearable artificial kidneys.

(00:33:04) Conclusion

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Guest Renee Zhao works at the cutting-edge of robotic surgery – literally. Emboldened by advances in 3D-printing and miniaturization, she builds “millibots,” magnet-controlled, millimeter-scale soft robots that navigate the bloodstream to remove blood clots and treat brain aneurysms. While the millibot’s promise is clear, much work remains before the devices are commonplace. Revolutionizing health care with surgical robots will require a delicate balance of design, buildability, and functionality, Zhao tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile:  Renee Zhao

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces guest Renee Zhao, a professor of mechanical engineering at Stanford University.

(00:03:34) Robotic Surgery and Healthcare

Renee’s inspiration for soft robotics and its potential in healthcare applications.

(00:05:49) Current Status of Robotic Surgery

Current robotic surgery technologies and the push for more advanced solutions.

(00:09:32) Nature-Inspired Soft Robotics

How soft robotic systems are ideal for working within delicate human tissues.

(00:11:41) Millirobotic Systems

Recently developed millimeter-sized robots that swim and navigate blood vessels.

(00:14:46) Millirobot Control

The role of magnetic fields and imaging technology for robot navigation.

(00:17:18) Treating Blood Clots and Aneurysms

The multifunctional abilities of robots to deliver drugs and treat blood clots.

(00:19:46) Doctor’s Reaction to New Technology

Excitement for the new robotic advancements amongst the need for better tools.

(00:21:04) Trends in Robot Size and Functionality

The design challenges for creating small yet functional robots.

(00:25:52) AI and Machine Learning in Robotic Design

AI’s role in optimizing robot design for specific patients.

(00:28:59)  Why Millimeter-Scale Robots

Why millirobots strike the right balance for performance and functionality.

(00:32:34) Conclusion

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Happy New Year! For many of us, a new year brings a renewed sense of motivation when it comes to health. Earlier this year, Russ sat down to speak with Jonathan Long, a Stanford biochemist who studies the chemicals produced during exercise. The conversation was one of our most popular during 2024 and today we’re re-sharing it. As many of us look to create healthy habits in 2025, we hope you’ll tune in to hear the exciting research Professor Long is doing to better understand the deep chemical connections between diet, exercise, and human health. 

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Jonathan Z. Long
• Johnathan’s Lab: LongLab@Stanford

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Russ Altman introduces guest Johnathan Long, a professor of pathology at Stanford University.

(00:01:55) Effective Weight Loss Drugs

The history and development of GLP-1 receptor agonists.

(00:03:27) Understanding Metabolism and Exercise

The role of metabolic chemicals released during physical activity.

(00:05:02) Animal Models in Exercise Studies 

The use of animal models in exercise studies and the discovery of Lac-Phe.

(00:06:40) Psychological Preparation for Exercise 

The psychology of exercise preparation and the involvement of endocannabinoids.

(00:08:53) Lac-Phe's Role and Mechanism 

Lac-Phe’s role in suppressing appetite and its production in the gut.

(00:11:46) Differences in Exercise Response 

Exercise response between trained athletes and untrained individuals.

(00:12:50) Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases 

The relationship between diabetes, exercise, and metabolic diseases.

(00:14:54) Lac-Phe as a Potential Therapeutic 

Lac-Phe’s potential and parallels to the early stages of GLP-1 drug development.

(00:16:13) Importance of How Weight is Lost 

The importance of losing fat while preserving lean muscle mass.

(00:19:04) Exercise as Medicine 

The need to define physical activity at the same resolution as modern medicines.

(00:22:03) Metformin and Exercise Pathways 

The unexpected connection between metformin and the Lac-Phe pathway.

(00:23:53) Prospects of an Exercise Pill 

The future of an exercise pill, and challenges associated with its development.

(00:26:57) Conclusion 

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Happy Holidays! However you’re celebrating, we hope you’re able to find time to connect with friends, family, and loved ones. To accompany you through the season, we’re re-running one of our most popular episodes from 2024, the future of skin longevity with Professor Zakia Rahman. As an expert in dermatology, Professor Rahman explains that our skin is our most photographed organ, and taking care of it is not about vanity but rather vitality. Tune in to hear our conversation about everything from laser therapies to sun protection.

Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected].

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Zakia Rahman
• Stanford Center on Longevity

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Russ Altman introduces guest Zakia Rahman, a professor of dermatology at Stanford University.

(00:02:05) The Impact of Digital Technologies 

How digital technologies and image exposure affect dermatology and self-perception.

(00:03:20) Effects of Self-Image on Dermatology 

Balancing vanity and vitality in modern skincare trends.

(00:04:46) The Role of Lasers in Dermatology 

The use of laser technology in dermatology, including types and applications.

(00:08:25) Lasers in Skin Cancer Treatment 

How laser technology aids in the treatment and prevention of skin cancer.

(00:09:52) Progress in Skin Cancer 

Skin cancer prevention and the effectiveness of sun protection measures.

(00:13:10) Effectiveness of Physical Sun Protection 

The protective benefits of everyday clothing versus specialized sun-protective gear.

(00:18:35) Ethnic Differences in Skin Health 

The differences in skin health and sun exposure across various ethnic groups.

(00:23:24) Aesthetic and Cultural Implications in Skin Care 

How cultural perceptions of beauty intersect with skincare and overall health.

(00:25:46) Therapeutic Effects of Light 

The potential skincare benefits of red light therapy and its popularity.

(00:28:33) Conclusion 

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