BioTalk Unzipped BioTalk Unzipped

A Diagnostic Breakthrough for Alzheimer’s

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Jonathan Hill discusses his work in nanopore sequencing-based technology and its applications in genetic and epigenetic research. He shares his experiences working in Brazil and his passion for preserving the rainforest. The conversation also explores the use of AI in analyzing the genetic underpinnings of tobacco addiction and the potential impact on addiction treatment. Dr. Hill highlights his lab's breakthrough in identifying early biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease using DNA methylation signatures. 

Takeaways


Nanopore sequencing is a powerful technology that allows for real-time analysis of native DNA and RNA, regardless of length, and provides valuable insights into genetic and epigenetic research.


Preserving the rainforest is crucial, and initiatives like the Rainforest Trust play a vital role in protecting the biodiversity and resources found in these ecosystems.


AI technologies, when used in conjunction with genetic research, can accelerate the identification of candidate genes associated with complex conditions like tobacco addiction, leading to personalized approaches for smoking cessation and addiction treatment.


The integration of AI technologies in genetic research should be approached with caution, as the black box nature of AI can limit our understanding of the underlying biology. It is important to carefully test and explain AI models to build trust among users.


The use of nanopore sequencing and DNA methylation signatures shows promise in the early detection of Alzheimer's disease, potentially allowing for personalized approaches to treatment and intervention.



Sound Bites


"One of my bucket list items, one of my dreams would be to set up a nanopore sequencing lab in the Amazon and just sequence that biodiversity and create that data so we could glean it for everything it's worth and learn so much about how our world works."


"Nanopore sequencing is based on protein nanopores that exist in nature, and these particular nanopores can pass DNA through the pore."


"AI technologies, when used in conjunction with genetic research, can accelerate the identification of candidate genes associated with complex conditions like tobacco addiction, leading to personalized approaches for smoking cessation and addiction treatment."


“Biology is not rocket science, it’s much harder.”


"Better diagnosis comes better treatment."



Chapters

00:00 Introduction 

02:51 Donation to the Rainforest Trust & Time in Brazil

06:37 How Nanopore Sequencing Works

12:45 New News!  AI and the Genetic Code of Tobacco Addiction

15:20 Using AI in Nanopore Sequencing at Wasatch Labs and Diagnostics

21:14 Finding Cell-Free DNA for Fertility Treatments

22:56 Breakthrough - Finding Early Biomarkers for Alzheimer’s



New News Article

Breaking the Genetic Code of Tobacco Addiction

https://neurosciencenews.com/genetics-tobacco-addiction-ai-25937/ 



How to reach us:

Dr. Jonathan Hill

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathon-t-hill/ 

Wasatch Labs: https://www.wasatchbiolabs.com/ 

Dr. Chad Briscoe

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbriscoe/ 

Celerion - https://www.celerion.com/  

Gregory Austin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryaustin1/ 

ECI - https://eci-rx.com / 



Image Credits

Rainforest Trust - https://www.rainforesttrust.org/ 

https://www.envirobuild.com/blog/rainforest-trust

Fire Sponge

https://stock.adobe.com/ 

Amazon

Photos: Shutterstock 

Medicine Man

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/stills-from-the-movie-medicine-man-32217/medicine-man-5-159239/ 

https://www.solarnavigator.net/films_movies_actors/medicine_man.htm

Oxford Nanopore Technologies

How nanopore sequencing works

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcP85JHLmnI 



Keywords

nanopore sequencing, genetic research, epigenetics, rainforest preservation, AI, tobacco addiction, addiction treatment, Alzheimer's diseas

The AI Prescription: Revolutionizing Pharma & Patient Care with Jason Burke

Summary

In Episode 13, Jason Burke discusses the unique approach of the Duke program in providing real-world healthcare data to students. He also highlights the breakthrough in AI-generated drug discovery and its potential impact on investors and startups. The process of assessing technologies for companies and patients is explored, with a focus on evaluating business and technology aspects. The importance of unique intellectual property is emphasized, and the future of AI and software is discussed. The conversation concludes with insights into using AI in everyday life and the role of search engine companies in AI. In this conversation, Chad and Jason discuss the interface between pharma companies and the healthcare industry, highlighting the lack of interplay between the two. They explore the challenges faced by the healthcare industry, including the complexity of the operating environment and the limited infrastructure for research. Jason emphasizes the potential for life sciences firms to become service companies and overcome these challenges. They also delve into Jason's interest in amateur radio and the fascinating world of ham radio, where he has been learning and discovering new things.

Takeaways


The Duke program provides students with real-world healthcare data, giving them a unique advantage in the job market.


AI-generated drug discovery has the potential to revolutionize the pharmaceutical industry and attract more investment to startups.


Assessing technologies for companies and patients involves evaluating both the business and technology aspects, including intellectual property.


The future of AI and software will see the emergence of new forms of experiences and collaboration between humans and machines.


Search engine companies have been late to adopt AI technologies like ChatGPT, but they have already been utilizing AI in their search algorithms. 


\There is a need for more interplay between pharma companies and the healthcare industry to ensure better understanding of customer needs and feedback.


The healthcare industry faces challenges due to the complexity of the operating environment and limited infrastructure for research.


Life sciences firms have the potential to become not just product companies, but service companies and provide valuable solutions to overcome the challenges in the healthcare industry.


Doctors want to help patients at the highest level possible but continually grapple with the complexity of the healthcare environment and the sheer volume of patients.


Amateur radio, or ham radio, offers a fascinating world of learning and discovery, with a community of innovators constantly finding new and creative ways to use the technology.



Chapters

00:29 Unique Approach in Duke Program

05:14 New News! The First AI-Generated Drug Discovery

09:33 Assessing Technologies for Companies and Patients. 

11:52 The Importance of Unique Intellectual Property

12:35 The Future of AI and Software

13:36 Data as a Commodity

15:10 Innovation Curves and Technology, AI Compressing it

16:41 Using AI in Everyday Life

19:04 Why were Search Engine Companies Late to the Generative AI Game?

20:05 New Forms of Software and Experiences

22:53 The Future of Healthcare and Pharma - Enough Interfacing?

25:08 The Difficulty of Doctors in Complex Environments and Implementing Precision Medicine

29:03 Jason's Interest in Amateur Radio and Exploring the Ham Radio Community

31:39 Bouncing a Radio Signal Off the Moon & Sending Emails over Radio Waves



How to reach us:

Jason Burke

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonburke/

Creo Inc. -  https://www.creoinc.net/ 

Dr. Chad Briscoe

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbriscoe/

Celerion - https://www.celerion.com/ 

Gregory Austin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryaustin1/

ECI - https://eci-rx.com/ 



#AI  #pharmaceutical #healthcare #drugdiscovery #futu

Summary

In this episode of BioTalk Unzipped, the hosts discuss the applications and ethical concerns surrounding organoids, which are 3D cell clusters that mimic the features of full-sized organs. They explore the potential of brain organoids in brain-computer interfaces and neuroplasticity. The conversation then shifts to the impact of AI and data sciences in healthcare, with a focus on the challenges and opportunities in implementing AI strategies. The hosts also discuss the future of quantum computing in healthcare and the FDA's IT strategy with 21 CFR Part 11. 


Chapters

01:14 - Introduction to BioTalk Unzipped

03:30 - NEW NEWS: Discussion on Organoids and Their Applications 

04:45 - Ethical Concerns with Brain Organoids as mini bio-computers

06:31 - Organoid Possibilities in Drug Discovery Research and Brain Interfaces

08:59 - The Potential of Brain Training and Neuroplasticity

10:51 - The Impact of AI and Data Sciences in Healthcare

11:18 - Jason’s Background and Emerging Technologies Transforming Clinical Research

13:43 - The Role of AI in Precision Medicine, Quantum Computing and Business Growth

24:15 - FDA's IT Strategy and the Challenges of Implementing AI

26:32 - The Importance of Strategy and Prioritization in IT, Data Integrity, and 21 CFR Part 11



How to reach us:

Jason Burke

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonburke/

Creo Inc. -  https://www.creoinc.net/ 

Dr. Chad Briscoe

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbriscoe/

Celerion - https://www.celerion.com/ 

Gregory Austin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryaustin1/

ECI - https://eci-rx.com/ 

New News Link:

The many uses of mini-organs

https://www.technologyreview.com/2024/03/08/1089612/the-many-uses-of-mini-organs/ 

Image Credits

Brain - https://www.vecteezy.com/vector-art/658977-kawaii-cute-happy-brain-with-arms-and-legs

UFO - https://www.pinterest.com/pin/swampthingy--675891856570360044/



#HealthcareInnovation #Organoids #AI #QuantumComputing #Podcast #BioTalkUnzipped #drugdiscovery

Podcast Show Notes:
“How To Prevent And Fix PAINFUL Medical Device Recalls with Debbie Church”


Host: Gregory Austin
Guest: Debbie Church, Regulatory
Senior Manager, Enhanced Compliance Inc. (ECI)

 

In this Bonus Episode (EP11) you get to watch a recording from a previous LinkedIn Live show discussing the methods, strategies, and techniques you can use to prevent and remediate Medical Device
Recalls. 

Introduction


Gregory Austin, Business Development Lead for Enhanced Compliance Inc. (ECI), welcomes listeners to the BioTalk Unzipped podcast’s LinkedIn Live session.
Special guest: Debbie Church, Regulatory Senior Manager at ECI, with over 25 years of experience in the medical device industry.

DISCUSSION HIGHLIGHTS

1. Trends in Medical Device Recalls


Austin highlights the increasing trend
in medical device recalls over recent years.


Data from the FDA website shows a steady rise: 33 recalls in 2020, 62 in 2023, and 23 in Q1 of 2024.
Questions why these recalls continue to increase?

2. Reasons for Recalls


Church elaborates on the reasons behind medical device recalls.
Discusses the consequences of changes leading to unintended outcomes.
Highlights the importance of having robust post-market surveillance programs to handle complaints effectively.


3. Costs Associated with Recalls

Financial Costs: Direct expenses, legal and regulatory costs, and reputation damage.


Operational Costs: Rework, redesign, and supply chain disruptions.
Innovation Impact: Delayed innovation and competitor advantage.
Patient Safety and Trust/Brand: Potential patient harm and loss of trust.
Stock Price Impact: Share price decline after major recall events.

4. Quality Improvement Initiatives


Church shares examples of successful quality improvement initiatives.
Discusses FDA’s updated cybersecurity guidance and improvements in Quality Management Systems (QMS) and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) procedures.

5. Reporting Process and Regulatory Collaboration


Walks through the process of reporting a medical device recall to regulatory authorities.
Explores how regulators collaborate with industry stakeholders to improve the effectiveness of recalls and prevent future issues. 

Conclusion


Austin summarizes the discussion, emphasizing the multifaceted costs of medical device recalls.
Highlights the importance of robust post-surveillance programs, quality control, and proactive prevention measures.
Invites listeners to reach out for further assistance or questions.

 

Contact Information:

Gregory Austin: gregory.austin@eci-rx.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryaustin1/

Debbie Church, Sr. Manager of Regulatory Compliance, ECI

https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-kidder-church-b921a169/ 

Enhanced Compliance Inc.

https://eci-rx.com




#MedicalDevices #Recalls #QualityAssurance #RegulatoryCompliance

Summary

In this episode, Scott Schliebner discusses the unique challenges and complexities of rare disease trials. He highlights the difficulties in recruiting patients, the multidisciplinary nature of care, and the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders. The role of AI in rare disease trials is also explored, with a focus on its potential for patient recruitment and data analysis. 

Scott shares success stories in the field and discusses the expanding use of gene therapy to target multiple genes. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the recent FDA approval of Iovance's Amtogvy as the first T-cell therapy for a solid tumor, Melanoma. In this conversation, Scott discusses the potential of cell therapy in targeting solid tumors, particularly melanoma. He highlights the importance of expanding the use of cell therapy to other tumor types and the potential for curative treatments. The conversation also delves into the challenges and questions surrounding pricing and ethics in the gene and cell therapy space. The impact of curative therapies on quality of life and healthcare costs is explored, along with the success of curative therapies in hepatitis C. The high bar of clinical development and regulatory standards is discussed, as well as the potential for cost-effective treatments. The conversation concludes with advice for young professionals and established clinical professionals in the field of drug development.

Takeaways


Cell therapy shows promise in targeting solid tumors, such as the breakthrough in melanoma treatment, and has the potential to provide curative treatments for various cancer types.


The pricing and ethical considerations surrounding gene and cell therapy raise important questions about accessibility and affordability.


Curative therapies have the potential to significantly improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs by eliminating the need for long-term treatments.


The success of curative therapies in hepatitis C demonstrates the potential for similar breakthroughs in other disease areas.


Young professionals interested in a career in clinical drug development should seek opportunities to gain experience and consider starting in roles such as clinical research coordinators or clinical research associates.


Rare Givers is a nonprofit organization that supports caregivers in the rare disease space.



Chapters

00:21 - Collaborative Approach in Rare Disease Trials

3:32 - The Role of AI in Rare Disease Trials

6:11 - Success Stories in Rare Disease Trials

11:34 - Expanding Gene Therapy to Target Multiple Genes

16:56 - New News: FDA Approval of Iovance's Amtagvi, The Breakthrough of IOVANCE for Melanoma

19:27 - Targeting Solid Tumors with Cell Therapy, Expanding the Potential of Cell Therapy

20:23 - The Impact of Curative Therapies on Quality of Life and Healthcare Costs

21:11 - Challenges and Questions around Pricing and Ethics

22:37 - Cures for Hepatitis C

23:25 - The High Bar of Clinical Development and Regulatory Standards

24:05 - Pricing Considerations for Different Cancer Types, The Potential for Cost-Effective Treatments

27:45 - Advice for Young Professionals in Clinical Drug Development

31:49 - Advice for Established Clinical Professionals

33:21 - Scott's Hobbies and Interests

Learn about and DONATE to Rare Givers:

https://www.raregivers.global/ 

How to reach us:

Scott Schliebner

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-schliebner-1087789/ 

Dr. Chad Briscoe

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbriscoe/ 

Gregory Austin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryaustin1/

New News Link:

https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/fda-approves-iovances-amtagvi-first-cell-therapy-solid-tumor 

Image Credits

Iovance, https://www.iovance.com/ 

FDA approved, https://www.tipranks.com/news/iovance-nasdaqiova-fda-approves-cell-therapy-stock-gains

Amtagvi, https://www.amtagvi.com/ 

Impact of AI in Rare Disease Trials with Scott Schliebner

Summary

In this episode, the hosts welcome Scott Schliebner as their guest and kick off with a charitable act, donating to Rare Givers. They delve into the Epitomee weight loss capsule's potential impact, then shift to discussing the challenges of establishing a North American infrastructure for a MedTech CRO, navigating cross-cultural dynamics. Later, they investigate the transformative potential of AI and machine learning in clinical trials. Scott Schliebner weighs in on the intricacies of rare disease trials, emphasizing patient recruitment hurdles, interdisciplinary care, and stakeholder collaboration. The conversation also delves into AI's role in addressing these challenges, particularly in patient recruitment and data analysis.


#clinicaltrials #science #ai #raredisease #drugdevelopment Takeaways


Rare Givers (https://www.raregivers.global/) is a nonprofit organization that supports caregivers in the rare disease space.


The Epitome weight loss capsule is an innovative medical device that tricks the body into feeling full, aiding in weight loss.


Building a North American infrastructure for a MedTech CRO requires navigating cultural differences and finding key leaders who can adapt to a startup environment.


AI and machine learning have the potential to transform clinical trials by improving drug discovery, analyzing large datasets, and enhancing patient retention. 



Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Charity Donation - Rare Givers

02:30 - Discussion on Rare Givers

04:08 - What inspired Scott to the Clinical space

06:12 - New News: Epitomee Weight Loss Capsule

11:25 - Epitomee target drug delivery application weight loss competition with Wegovy

14:05 - Building a North American infrastructure for EU-based MedTech focused CRO

16:35 - Cultural idiosyncrasies to be aware of doing business with different countries

23:53 - The Impact of AI and Machine Learning, and generative AI in Clinical Trials, drug development, FDA compliance, and quality control

30:13 - Understanding Rare Disease Trials, and overcoming challenges 

33:12 - Is it a Zebra or a Horse?

DONATE to Rare Givers:

https://www.raregivers.global/ 

How to reach us:

Scott Schliebner

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-schliebner-1087789/ 

Dr. Chad Briscoe

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbriscoe/ 

Gregory Austin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryaustin1/

New News Link:


Epitomee® announces the filing of a novel Weight Loss Capsule for FDA clearance



https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/epitomee-announces-the-filing-of-a-novel-weight-loss-capsule-for-fda-clearance-302081225.html



NIH Study publication: Safety, tolerability and efficacy of a novel self‐use biodegradable device for management of obesity



https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6700511/ 




Image Credits

Zebra - https://www.rarediseaseday.org/event/6th-annual-rare-disease-day-virtual-race/