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Johan Skog:
Exosomes: The Future of Diagnostics



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"One aspect of innovation is to cherish the unexpected."


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In this episode of Back of the Napkin Podcast, we dive into the groundbreaking world of exosome research with liquid biomarker pioneer and founder of Exosome Diagnostics, Dr. Johan Skog. The conversation unpacks Johan's inspirational journey from a sports-enthusiast and student in Sweden to an innovator in medical science, illustrating the power of persistence and curiosity in driving scientific discovery.

Exploring the war room of Exosome Diagnostics in Waltham, MA Alex and Johan venture into the backstory of the company's creation and the pivotal discovery of RNA in exosomes — a finding that has opened doors for non-invasive disease diagnostics. The episode progresses to discuss the real-world implications of exosome research, touching upon the company's successful development of a urine-based test, The ExoDx™ Prostate Test (EPI), which aids in the early detection and treatment decision-making for prostate cancer. Johan's articulate explanations shed light on the complexities and potentials of exosomes, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this exciting scientific frontier.

Key Takeaways:
  • Johan Skog's discovery of RNA within exosomes revolutionized the possibility of non-invasive liquid biopsies for diagnosing numerous diseases.
  • The development story of The ExoDx Prostate Test, a urine-based risk assessment for prostate cancer, enabling doctors to identify and move the right patients on to have a tissue biopsy, while avoiding this invasive procedure for patients at lower risk.
  • The applications of exosomes extend beyond diagnostics to include potential therapeutic uses, such as delivering targeted therapies while evading the immune system.
  • What are exosomes? This is not the same as genetic testing, which is based on a person's DNA profile. By analyzing gene expression through exosomal RNA, we're able to look at cancer activity while the cancer is still living and potentially growing.
  • Johan's approach to innovation emphasizes the importance of exploring unexpected results and staying open to new directions and opportunities.
  • Collaboration with various institutions, including NASA, reflects the versatile implications of exosome research for a wide range of fields, from oncology to space medicine.

Resources: Exosome Diagnostics Website: Exosome Diagnostics

Disclaimer: Exosome Diagnostics is a Bio-Techne brand
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