The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation Season 2 Episode 14 Lung Growing
- February 20, 2016
In season 2 episode 14 of The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation, viewers are taken on a journey exploring the latest technological advancements in various fields. One of the most intriguing segments of the episode is on lung growing, a fascinating process that could transform the way we treat respiratory illnesses.
The segment features an interview with Dr. Harald Ott, a Harvard Medical School professor who has made significant strides in lung regeneration. The episode explains how Ott and his colleagues have developed a method for growing new lungs using existing tissue from human donors.
The process begins with a lung that is no longer viable for transplantation due to damage or disease. The lung is then stripped of all its cells, leaving behind only a network of proteins that form the lung's scaffold. This scaffold provides the framework onto which new lung cells can grow.
Once the scaffold is in place, lung cells from a donor are introduced to the structure. These cells are harvested from a variety of sources, including blood vessels and airways. As the cells grow and multiply, they begin to form a new lung that can be transplanted back into a patient.
The episode goes on to highlight the potential benefits of this technique, which could revolutionize the way we treat lung disease. With more than 35 million people worldwide suffering from chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other respiratory disorders, the ability to grow new lungs has the potential to save countless lives.
In addition to the lung growing segment, the episode features a number of other fascinating stories related to cutting-edge technology. One segment explores the use of 3D printing in creating prosthetic limbs, while another looks at advances in solar power generation.
The show also features an interview with Dr. Lena Ting, a biomedical engineer who is developing a wearable exoskeleton that can help people with mobility impairments walk more easily. The device, which is still in testing, could represent a major advance in accessibility and independence for those with conditions such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries.
Overall, season 2 episode 14 of The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation showcases some of the most exciting technological breakthroughs happening around the world today. With segments on everything from lung regeneration to solar power, the episode is sure to capture the imaginations of viewers interested in science, engineering, and innovation.