Method for improving genomic stability and cell line reprogramming
This technology promotes homologous recombination during cellular reprogramming, leading to more efficient generation of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines with improved genetic integrity.
Unmet Need: Methods for controlling genome instability caused during genomic engineering
A significant challenge in the generation of iPSC lines from somatic cell sources is the resulting genome instability and frequency of genetic changes. Such instability compromises the genetic integrity and developmental competence of iPSC lines generated for use in research and therapy. Considering that this issue is not addressed by existing methods for cellular reprogramming, there remains a need for a strategy to improve genome stability during the generation of stem cell lines.
The Technology: Promotion of homologous recombination during cellular reprogramming
This technology identifies an improved method for generating induced pluripotent stem cells. Through interference with 53BPI expression, a factor that promotes nonhomologous end joining, the technology shifts the balance towards homologous recombination. Such a shift improves genomic stability during reprogramming with a wide range of agents such as RNA guided nucleases, resulting in more efficient generation of stem cell lines with improved genetic integrity. As such, this technology may be used for the generation of developmentally competent stem cell lines with broad applications spanning research and medicine.
Applications:
- Generation of stable iPSC lines
- Direct reprogramming of somatic cells
- Replacement therapies
- Regenerative medicine for various diseases
Advantages:
- Targets proteins specific to DNA recombination
- Offers multiple targets
- Promotes genome stability
- Improves efficiency of cell reprogramming
- Improves developmental competence of stem cell lines
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU20029
Licensing Contact: Kristin Neuman