Video Tag: Behind the Bench

Why microbes matter: Your immune system’s microscopic allies | Behind the Bench with Howard Hang

In the world of immunology, “gut reactions” take on a whole new meaning—not emotions, but signals from tiny organisms found in the gastrointestinal tract. And at Scripps Research, Professor Howard Hang explores the surprising power of some of the smallest inhabitants: microbes. These trillions of bacteria living in the gut communicate with human cells to shape immunity, metabolism and even how the body responds to disease treatments.

My life and my science | Behind the Bench with Graduate Student Leigh Sewall

Graduate student Leigh Sewall discusses her journey to Scripps Research, her experience in the Skaggs grad program and what it means to be a woman in STEM. Leigh is a recipient of the David C. Fairchild Endowed Fellowship in the Skaggs Graduate School of Chemical and Biological Sciences.

Regenerative medicine for the treatment of MS | Behind the Bench with Luke Lairson

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune disease that disrupts the central nervous system, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, cognitive challenges and a gradual loss of function that current treatments cannot fully repair. MS arises when the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, the protective layer insulating neurons. Scripps Research chemistry professor Luke Lairson discusses his research on the body’s natural repair pathways—specifically those that activate endogenous stem cells to restore myelin. His work aims to develop therapies that complement existing therapeutic approaches and halt MS progression.

Unlocking the brain-gut connection | Behind the Bench with Supriya Srinivasan

How do our gut and brain communicate with one another, and how do they influence our metabolism, our behavior, and the aging process? Scripps Research neuroscience professor Supriya Srinivasan is dedicated to answering these pressing questions using modern genetic and molecular tools across different experimental systems. Discover how her work could lead to new therapies that restore a healthy metabolism and tackle dysregulation.

From humble beginnings | Behind the Bench with graduate student Alex Salazar

Originally from the Antelope Valley, Alex's journey from her hometown to the renowned Scripps Research in La Jolla is a testament to perseverance and passion. From growing up in an underserved neighborhood to researching alongside a Nobel Laureate, she’s proving that anyone can become a researcher and help shape the future.