#008 - From Skeptic to Scientist, A Conversation with Dr. Augusto Zani

In this episode of the Incubator: At the bench, we talk with, Dr. Augusto Zani, a pediatric surgeon scientist who discusses his work on fetal lung regeneration and the use of stem cell derivatives and extracellular vesicles for diagnostics and therapy. He shares his journey from surgical training to becoming a surgeon scientist and the challenges he faced along the way. Dr. Zani also explains his transition from studying necrotizing enterocolitis to congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and the unanswered questions in lung hypoplasia related to CDH. He highlights the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind these conditions and the potential of extracellular vesicles in promoting lung growth and regeneration. Dr. Augusto Zani discusses his research on congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and the potential use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as a therapy. He also discusses the role of inflammation in CDH and how EVs have both regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. Dr. Zani also mentions the potential use of EVs in other pediatric surgical conditions, such as gastroschisis and spina bifida. He concludes by sharing his excitement about moving his lab to St. Louis Children's Hospital in the U.S.