Chemical approaches to regenerative organ repair

Despite perceived organismal complexity, mammals possess relatively poor regenerative potential compared to certain lesser species of Animalia (e.g., amphibians). Indeed, there are many human disease states
where an insufficient regenerative response limits organ repair and is determining of disease etiology (e.g., heart failure, T1D, IPF). To overcome these limitations, we have ongoing programs aimed at identifying novel small molecules, drug targets, and repurposed drugs which control the context-specific cell growth and differentiation pathways limiting regenerative potential in a given tissue or cell type. Here, I will overview our academic drug development programs aimed at regenerating several mammalian organ systems, including the heart and lungs.

Speaker: Mike Bollong, Scripps Research