Member Spotlight: Stevens Rehen, PhD

Stevens Rehen, PhD
D’Or Institute for Research and Education, Promega Corporation & Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, USA & Brazil

Hometown
Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) 

Current Residence
United States and Brazil

Graduate Degree
PhD

Postdoc Work
Pew Fellow in Neuroscience with Jerold Chun at University of California in San Diego and The Scripps Research Institute

Current Position
Senior Scientist at D’Or Institute for Research and Education and Promega Corporation, Professor at Federal University of Rio de Janeiro

• What is the current focus of your research?

  Currently, my research focuses on understanding the basic mechanisms underlying the effects of psychedelics on human brain tissue in vitro. Specifically, I am interested in studying the impact of these compounds on cellular and molecular processes, and how they may influence neural plasticity and inflammation. In addition, my team is also studying the biology of viral infections in the same in vitro cellular models.

• How would you explain the significance of this work to a lay audience?

  We study how different substances and diseases affect aggregates of specialized cells called brain organoids. We are particularly interested in how psychedelics impact the brain, and how we can use this information to develop new therapies for patients. Using brain cells, we are also investigating how viruses, such as the Zika virus and Sars-Cov-2, affect brain formation. Overall, our work is focused on finding new ways to help people by studying the brain.

• What do you find most rewarding about your work?

  The most rewarding aspect of our work is the opportunity to contribute to stem cell research in Brazil and to make it more internationally recognized. By applying stem cells in the context of neuroscience, we are able to generate hypotheses that were previously impossible to address even just 10 years ago. It's incredibly rewarding to be able to work with cutting-edge technologies and to advance our understanding of the brain and stem cells in ways that can ultimately benefit patients. By collaborating with researchers from around the world, I hope to continue making important contributions to this field and to help bring Brazilian stem cell research to the forefront of scientific discovery.

• What is the most exciting aspect of your work?

  What I find most exciting about our work is the ability to study human brain neurons and glial cells in the laboratory, and to use the cutting-edge technologies that are available today to answer questions that were impossible to answer when I was a student. Being able to advance our understanding of the brain and contribute to the development of new therapies for neurological conditions is incredibly fulfilling, and makes all of the hard work and long hours worthwhile.

• What led you to become a scientist and to stem cell research?

  My interest in science and stem cell research stems from a deep appreciation for the importance of science in society. However, the moment that truly inspired me to pursue this field was when I first saw a neuron under a microscope. I was struck by the realization that our consciousness is generated by specialized cells, and I knew that I wanted to dedicate my career to understanding how the brain works at the cellular level. Being able to contribute to this field and to help make a difference in people's lives is incredibly motivating and rewarding, and it's what continues to drive me forward in my work as a scientist.

• What guidance would you share in talking with trainees interested in pursuing your area of research?

  I would advise students to focus on mastering the basics of cell culture and studying the history of the field. However, it's also crucial to stay updated on the latest literature and opportunities in stem cell research. Staying current with the field's developments and innovations is essential for advancing one's research and staying competitive in the field. Additionally, I believe that transdisciplinary collaboration is becoming increasingly important in stem cell research. Conversing with colleagues from different areas of expertise can lead to new insights and breakthroughs, and may ultimately help to drive the field forward. Therefore, I would encourage trainees to seek out opportunities for collaboration and to remain open to new perspectives and approaches.

• Do you have any mentors or individuals who have inspired you in your stem cell work?

  I've been fortunate enough to learn from several influential stem cell researchers and neuroscientists, including Rafael Linden and Jerold Chun, both of whom greatly impacted my own research. Linden's work on the retina and Chun's research on brain cortex development was particularly inspiring to me. I'm also inspired by the contributions of Shynia Yamanaka, James Thomson, Jeanne Loring, Madeleine Lancaster, Arturo Alvarez-Buylla, Carla Shatz, Charles Stevens, and other pioneers in the field of stem cell research and neuroscience, whose work has significantly advanced our understanding of stem cells and their potential applications in medicine.

• How do you spend your free time?

  In my spare time, I like to keep myself busy with activities that get me moving, such as running, jiu-jitsu, and volleyball. Staying physically active is good for me, but I'm also secretly hoping that these activities will work wonders on my neurogenesis and stem cells in general. Above all, though, I love spending time with my children and loved ones. It's truly a joy to watch them grow and develop into kind, caring individuals.

• What is something your peers would be surprised to learn about you?

  For years, I had the pleasure of being the host of a live weekly science news on the biggest cable TV channel in Brazil. In addition, I was also a science commentator on the country's leading talk show. I also had the honor of hosting two complete podcast series featuring interviews with prominent figures in the cultural and scientific spheres of my country. These podcasts are easily accessible on all major podcast platforms.

  The role of scientific communication is of great significance. It's fundamental in educating the public, fostering scientific literacy, and promoting critical thinking. This is particularly important in a country like Brazil, where making scientific content accessible can substantially contribute to social and economic development. Through science outreach, we are able to cultivate a society that is not only better informed but also more capable of making impactful decisions regarding the environment, health, technology, and beyond.

• What do you most value about your membership with the ISSCR?

  Being a member of the ISSCR can provide various benefits, including networking opportunities with leading researchers and experts in the field of stem cell research. The society offers access to a wealth of videos, webinars, and educational material, which can be valuable for staying up-to-date with the latest advancements and techniques in stem cell research. Moreover, the society is committed to promoting ethical and responsible research practices, which aligns with the core values of many researchers in the field.