Episode 3: Dr. Bill Hagopian and Michael Killian: Tracking Ghosts

PNRI Science: Mystery & Discovery

“Studying viruses is like tracking ghosts. It's incredibly difficult work.” - Dr. Bill Hagopian

In this episode of PNRI Science: Mystery and Discovery, PNRI CEO Jack Faris interviews the TEDDY Study’s Principal Investigator Dr. Bill Hagopian and PNRI’s TEDDY Clinical Research Manager Michael Killian who have led the massive international study, The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young, or “TEDDY,” for more than 20 years.

As part of the study, PNRI has been collecting samples from participants age three months to 15 years for more than two decades. From blood draws to stool samples and even baby teeth, these samples help determine the environmental factors that lead to type 1 diabetes.

William A. Hagopian, MD, PhD, has been a leader in diabetes research for over 30 years. He earned his PhD in biochemistry as well as his MD from the University of Chicago. Michael Killian has been managing clinical services for PNRI for 26 years.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• [0:00] Understanding the Teddy Project
• [3:34] Meet Bill Hagopian
• [7:07] Meet Michael Killian
• [9:49] Environmental triggers and preventative measures
• [20:00] Challenges and myths in type one diabetes research
• [26:04] Innovative Sampling techniquest and data collection
• [35:54] Future directions and broader impact
• [45:05] Optimism for the future of science

In this episode, Bill and Michael illuminate how tracking viruses is like tracking ghosts, share what we have learned about type 1 diabetes over 20 years, and discuss where the field is going in the future. The TEDDY study is a treasure trove of longitudinal data that is revolutionizing care for type 1 diabetes.

The Hagopian Lab embodies PNRI’s spirit of intellectual freedom to drive medical breakthroughs. We provide the freedom for scientists to follow where the science leads, and that culture creates incredible discoveries.

To learn more about Bill and Michael, read their in-depth Q&A: or check out his lab webpage: pnri.org/hagopian-lab

Connect with PNRI, ask our scientists questions, or come on a lab tour! pnri.org/about/connect

This podcast is hosted by PNRI CEO Jack Faris and his daughter Anna Faris.

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