A New High-Throughput Cell Biology Method to Screen for Genes Critical for Cell Differentiation

Background:

One of the many draws of stem cells is their potential for regenerating tissues, nerves, and other organs, but the differentiation potential of stem cells is highly regulated by genes. Therefore, the ability to utilize stem cells for regenerative medicine requires knowledge of the regulatory genes involved in this process to predict and control how they differentiate into the desired specialized cells. As a result, there is a need for improved methods of detection and identification of the regulatory genes that are required for inducing stem cells differentiation.

Technology Overview:

Researchers at SUNY Upstate Medical University have developed high-throughput screening methods for identifying genes involved in cell differentiation that may help to advance the field of regenerative medicine. More specifically, the methods enable the identification and efficacy of regulatory genes required to induce a stem cell into differentiating into a specialized terminal cell.

Advantages:

•    Enables determination of genes necessary for stem cells to differentiate into specialized cells
•    Can test several genes simultaneously
•    May facilitate the use of stem cells to repair damaged organs and tissues

Applications:

Regenerative Medicine

Intellectual Property Summary:

•    Patent application submitted
•    Provisional patent