Inaugural lecture by Professor Keisuke Kaji, Professor of Biology of Reprogramming, Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh.

Lecture description:

Every human begins their journey as a single cell; a fertilised egg. This one cell has the potential to turn into any other cell type and eventually build a body.

Scientists call this cellular flexibility 'pluripotency'. It's an ability that is quickly lost as cells develop into a baby. In 2006, scientists found a way to recall this pluripotency, even in adult cells. This means scientists can create cells, called induced pluripotent stem cells, that can then be redirected to make any other cell type.

This flexibility creates huge opportunities for future medical therapies but first we need to understand exactly how it works.

Recorded Tuesday 30 May 2023, Shirley Hall, Chancellor's Building, Bioquarter.