Season 2 Episode 1 | The Science Of Translating Discovery | Dr. Sofia Cardenas-Alcoser, postdoc fellow Gutkind Lab UCSD Moores Cancer Center

Welcome to "The Science Of" Podcast, where students from the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA sit down with top scientists, doctors, and other leaders in the world of science from the globally renowned UCSD and the UCSD Moores Cancer Center in La Jolla, CA.

The "Science of" podcast episode features Dr. Sofia Cardenas-Alcoser from UCSD's Moores Cancer Center discussing her journey from chemistry to biomedical research, focusing on cell signaling and cancer. She explains the complexities of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in cancer. Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser highlights a significant discovery linking G protein alpha subunits to immune system infiltration in tumors, potentially leading to new cancer treatments. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and resilience in research and shares her passion for video games and Twitch streaming. The episode also includes a Q&A segment with young listeners.

Enjoy this episode and get your PODucation on!! 

Introduction to the Science of Podcast

• Dahlia Sandoval introduces the podcast, emphasizing curiosity and the exploration of various scientific topics.
• The podcast is hosted by students from the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA and the Elementary Institute of Science.
• Partnerships include the UCSD Moores Cancer Center and the UCSD campus.
• Funding for the program is provided by Cloudcast Media.

Welcome and Episode Overview

• Dahlia Sandoval welcomes listeners and introduces the episode's focus on cell signaling and circuitry, particularly in relation to cancer cells.
• August is introduced as the co-host, along with August, Kelsey, and Josue.
• August introduces Dr. Sofia Cardenas-Alcoser, the guest speaker for the episode.

Dr. Sophia Cardenas-Alcoser’s Background

• Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser shares her journey from studying chemistry in Ecuador to pursuing biomedical research in Argentina.
• She discusses her acceptance into a master's program at the University of La Plata and her subsequent PhD at the University of Buenos Aires.
• Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser talks about her transition to the UCSD Moores Cancer Center and the challenges she faced as a first-generation researcher.

Personal Insights and Game Segment

• Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser shares her experiences of overcoming language barriers and personal challenges in her research journey.
• A fun game segment involves questions about her first science experiment, favorite music, and preferences for pets and food.
• Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser reveals her love for video games and her Twitch channel, where she streams games and discusses science.

Exploring Cell Signaling and Cancer Research

• Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser explains the concept of cell signaling using the analogy of a cell as an industry with different components.
• She describes the role of receptors and ligands in cell signaling and the importance of understanding these pathways.
• The discussion includes the significance of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in cancer research.

Discoveries and Implications in Cancer Research

• Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser highlights a significant discovery about the role of G protein alpha subunits in cancer.
• She explains how the activation of specific G protein pathways can affect the immune system's response to tumors.
• The potential for using this discovery to develop new cancer treatments is discussed.

Challenges and Progress in Cancer Research

• Dr. Cardenas-Alcoser talks about the challenges of translating basic research into clinical applications.
• She shares a story about a dormant project that was revived due to new funding and its potential impact on treating fibrodysplasia.
• The discussion includes the importance o