Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Facility

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are created by reprogramming somatic cells through the forced expression of specific transcription factors. iPSCs possess strong self-renewal capabilities and pluripotency, meaning they can differentiate into virtually any cell type in the human body. As a result, iPSCs represent a valuable and unlimited cell source for in vitro disease modeling, drug screening, and the development of personalized and regenerative medical therapies.

The iPSC facility provides Sendai reprogramming of patient-derived cells to generate high quality iPSC lines. Generated iPSC lines are fully characterized and quality controlled through expression analysis of pluripotency markers, trilineage differentiation, karyotyping, Sendai clearance and mycoplasm testing. We further provide differentiation of iPSCs into various cell types, including fibroblasts, endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells, and other cell types on request. Additionally, we have many years of expertise in generating 3D microtissues for disease modelling using these cells. The facility also provides iPSC culture training and technical support.

Service overview

Generation of iPSC

• Generation of iPSCs using non-integrating Sendai CytoTune reprogramming
• Expansion and cryostorage of 3 fully validated clones per line

Characterization and QC

• Analysis of pluripotency markers (SSEA4, OCT3/4, SOX2, TRA-1-60)
• Immunofluorescent staining for endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm markers
• Karyotyping
• STR cell line identity
• Sendai clearance (ML-I downscaling)
• Mycoplasma testing

Differentiation of iPSCs

• iPSC-cardiomyocytes (including maturation)
• iPSC-fibroblasts
• iPSC-endothelial cells
• Other cell types on request
• Generation of various 3D microtissues for disease modelling

Training and support

• Training in iPSC culture and differentiation
• Training in 3D model generation
• Support in physiological characterization of iPSC-derived disease models

The team

The iPSC Facility is operated by two iPSC research technicians, supported by a team of experts with expertise in iPSC technology and in vitro disease modelling.