On this episode of Beyond the Abstract, Derek and Ellen invite Lindsey Avery Fitzsimons, a PhD student at the University of Maine, to discuss new research in the intersecting worlds of heart valve disease and cell biology. A new paper combining mouse genetics and human genome sequencing data uncovers a new role for primary cilia, which are small 'sensors' on cells, in causing mitral valve prolapse. This exemplary study demonstrates the importance of collaboration between physicians and scientists and how basic science can bring about answers to clinical questions.

You can find Lindsey on Instagram @laf_in_the_lab

Toomer et al. Primary cilia defects causing mitral valve prolapse. Science Translational Medicine, 2019. 11(493). PMID: 31118289.

This week on Beyond the Abstract, Derek, Ellen, and fellow MD/PhD classmate Jacob are talking about Parkinson's disease. A recent paper highlights how a new drug targets astrocytes and microglia, two types of brain cells, in order to treat Parkinson's disease by reducing inflammation and brain cell death. Listen as they discuss the importance of this discovery in the field of neurodegenerative diseases and improving quality of life for Parkinson's disease patients.

Yun et al. Block of A1 astrocyte conversion by microglia is neuroprotective in models of Parkinson's disease. Nature Medicine, 2018. 24(7):931-938. PMID: 29892066.

In this inaugural episode of Beyond the Abstract, our hosts Ellen and Derek along with their guest and fellow MD/PhD classmate Jenna discuss a paper on interspecies chimeras to create "Franken-organs." They discuss the potential medical implications of the paper, the promise that this research holds for organ transplantation, and what this could mean for the thousands of patients currently waiting for an organ transplant.

Wu et al. Interspecies chimerism with mammalian pluripotent stem cells. Cell, 2017. 168(3)473-486. PMID: 28129541