Can Stem Cells Extend Life? Nobel Laureate Shinya Yamanaka Explains

Can stem cells extend the human lifespan? Shinya Yamanaka, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist behind the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), joins bioethicist Insoo Hyun for an insightful discussion about the revolutionary potential and ethical dilemmas surrounding stem cell research. Together, they explore how reprogramming adult cells to act like embryonic stem cells is transforming medicine and sparking new hopes for treatments. But with every breakthrough comes new questions—how far can we push biology without crossing ethical lines? In this captivating conversation, Yamanaka reflects on the early challenges of his research, the skepticism he faced, and the moment his life-changing discovery was made. They discuss how iPSCs could lead to medical advances, including regenerative therapies for heart disease and drug testing for rare conditions. The two also dive into unexpected applications, such as using stem cells for species conservation and even reviving extinct animals like the woolly mammoth. This episode of Big Question offers a glimpse into the intersection of scientific innovation and ethical inquiry—showing how today’s breakthroughs shape tomorrow’s possibilities. 

Funding for this episode provided by the Lee and Nile Albright Annual Symposium Fund