image:
A safer regenerative medicine process that removes the risk of tumor formation.
Credit: Atsushi Intoh
Ikoma, Japan Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are a type of stem cells capable of developing into various cell types. Over the past few decades, scientists have been working towards the development of therapies using PSCs. Thanks to their unique ability to self-renew and differentiate (mature) into virtually any given type of tissue, PSCs could be used to repair organs that have been irreversibly damaged by age, trauma, or disease.
However, despite extensive efforts, regenerative therapies involving PSCs still have many hurdles to overcome. One being the formation of tumors (via the process of tumorigenesis) after the transplantation of PSCs. Once the PSCs differentiate into a specific type for stem cell therapy, there is a high probability of tumor formation after differentiated stem cells are introduced to the target organ. For the success of PSC-based therapies, the need of the hour is to minimize the risk of tumorigenesis by identifying potentially problematic cells in cultures, prior to transplantation.
Against this backdrop, a research team led by Atsushi Intoh and Akira Kurisaki from Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Japan, has recently achieved a breakthrough discovery regarding stem cell therapy and tumorigenesis. Our findings present advancements that could bridge the gap between stem cell research and clinical application, says Intoh, talking about the potential of their findings. Their study was published in Stem Cells Translational Medicine and focuses on a membrane protein called EPHA2, which was previously found to be elevated in PSCs prior to differentiation by the team.
Through several experiments involving both mouse and human stem cell cultures, the researchers gained insights into the role of EPHA2 in preserving the potency of PSCs to develop into several cell types. They found that EPHA2 in stem cells is co-expressed with OCT4a transcription factor protein which controls the expression of genes which are critically involved in the differentiation of embryonic stem cells. Interestingly, when the EPHA2 gene was knocked down from the cells, cultured stem cells spontaneously differentiated. These results suggest that EPHA2 plays a central role in keeping stem cells in an undifferentiated state.
The researchers thus theorized that EPHA2-expressing stem cells, which would fail to differentiate, might be responsible for tumorigenesis upon transplantation into the target organ.
To test this hypothesis, the researchers prepared PSC cultures and artificially induced their differentiation into liver cells. Using a magnetic antibody targeting EPHA2, they extracted EPHA2-positive cells from a group of cultures prior to transplantation into mice. Interestingly, the formation of tumors in mice receiving transplants from cultures from which EPHA2 had been removed was vastly suppressed.
Taken together, these results point to the importance of EPHA2 in emerging stem cell-based therapies. EPHA2 conclusively emerges as a potential marker for selecting undifferentiated stem cells, providing a valuable method to decrease tumorigenesis risks after stem cell transplantation in regenerative treatments, remarks Kurisaki.
Further in-depth studies on this protein may lead to the development of protocols that make PSCs safer to use. Luckily, however, these findings pave the way towards a future where we will be able to finally restore damaged organs and even overcome degenerative conditions.
###
Resource
Title: EPHA2 is a novel cell surface marker of OCT4-positive undifferentiated cells during the differentiation of mouse and human pluripotent stem cells.
Authors: Atsushi Intoh, Kanako Watanabe-Susaki, Taku Kato, Hibiki Kiritani, Akira Kurisaki
Journal: Stem Cells Translational Medicine
DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szae036
Information about Laboratory for Stem Cell Technologies can be found at the following website: https://bsw3.naist.jp/eng/courses/courses215.html
About Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST)
Established in 1991, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST) is a national university located in Kansai Science City, Japan. In 2018, NAIST underwent an organizational transformation to promote and continue interdisciplinary research in the fields of biological sciences, materials science, and information science. Known as one of the most prestigious research institutions in Japan, NAIST lays a strong emphasis on integrated research and collaborative co-creation with diverse stakeholders. NAIST envisions conducting cutting-edge research in frontier areas and training students to become tomorrow's leaders in science and technology.
Stem Cells Translational Medicine
Experimental study
Animals
EPHA2 is a novel cell surface marker of OCT4-positive undifferentiated cells during the differentiation of mouse and human pluripotent stem cells.
Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.
Originally posted here:
Tackling the hurdle of tumor formation in stem cell therapies - EurekAlert
- Stem cells for a Webby! [Last Updated On: April 28th, 2010] [Originally Added On: April 28th, 2010]
- Stem cells for a Webby! [Last Updated On: April 28th, 2010] [Originally Added On: April 28th, 2010]
- Latest Cell Therapy Approval by FDA. Dendreon's Provenge. [Last Updated On: April 30th, 2010] [Originally Added On: April 30th, 2010]
- Latest Cell Therapy Approval by FDA. Dendreon's Provenge. [Last Updated On: April 30th, 2010] [Originally Added On: April 30th, 2010]
- Google to Invest in Regenerative Medicine [Last Updated On: May 5th, 2010] [Originally Added On: May 5th, 2010]
- Biotech tax credit appears perfectly designed for cell therapy companies to recoup research dollars spent in 2009-10 [Last Updated On: May 22nd, 2010] [Originally Added On: May 22nd, 2010]
- The changing face of PR and why it matters to regenmed [Last Updated On: June 12th, 2010] [Originally Added On: June 12th, 2010]
- The changing face of PR and why it matters to regenmed [Last Updated On: June 12th, 2010] [Originally Added On: June 12th, 2010]
- FDA files injunction again Regenerative Sciences citing Regenexx violates regulations [Last Updated On: August 12th, 2010] [Originally Added On: August 12th, 2010]
- FDA files injunction again Regenerative Sciences citing Regenexx violates regulations [Last Updated On: August 12th, 2010] [Originally Added On: August 12th, 2010]
- Careers in cell therapy & regenerative medicine [Last Updated On: October 11th, 2010] [Originally Added On: October 11th, 2010]
- Careers in cell therapy & regenerative medicine [Last Updated On: October 11th, 2010] [Originally Added On: October 11th, 2010]
- The LinkedIn Cell Therapy Industry Group - 1,000 members strong [Last Updated On: February 14th, 2011] [Originally Added On: February 14th, 2011]
- Cell Therapies: Commercializing a New Class of Biopharmaceuticals [Last Updated On: February 14th, 2011] [Originally Added On: February 14th, 2011]
- The LinkedIn Cell Therapy Industry Group - 1,000 members strong [Last Updated On: February 14th, 2011] [Originally Added On: February 14th, 2011]
- Cell Therapies: Commercializing a New Class of Biopharmaceuticals [Last Updated On: February 14th, 2011] [Originally Added On: February 14th, 2011]
- Hydra VII - The European Summer School on Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine [Last Updated On: April 6th, 2011] [Originally Added On: April 6th, 2011]
- Alan Russell: Why can't we grow new body parts? [Last Updated On: May 23rd, 2011] [Originally Added On: May 23rd, 2011]
- Preserving Stem Cells: Regenerative Medicine [Last Updated On: June 7th, 2011] [Originally Added On: June 7th, 2011]
- Disease in a Dish: Using Stem Cells to Model Huntington's Disease and Spinal Muscular Atrophy [Last Updated On: June 8th, 2011] [Originally Added On: June 8th, 2011]
- Spotlight on Cancer Stem Cell Research [Last Updated On: June 21st, 2011] [Originally Added On: June 21st, 2011]
- In vivo cell trafficking just took a leap forward [Last Updated On: July 3rd, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 3rd, 2011]
- In vivo cell trafficking just took a leap forward [Last Updated On: July 3rd, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 3rd, 2011]
- A Dose of Reality on Alternative Stem Cell Treatments: What you don't know can hurt you [Last Updated On: July 7th, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 7th, 2011]
- Cell Therapy's Got Talent Technology Showcase - A Call for Cell Therapy Manufacturing Technology Presentations [Last Updated On: July 10th, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 10th, 2011]
- Cell Therapy's Got Talent Technology Showcase - A Call for Cell Therapy Manufacturing Technology Presentations [Last Updated On: July 10th, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 10th, 2011]
- Opening Remarks, Screening Stem Cells 2009: From Reprogramming to Regenerative Medicine [Last Updated On: July 22nd, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 22nd, 2011]
- Clinical trial costs [Last Updated On: July 31st, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 31st, 2011]
- Clinical trial costs [Last Updated On: July 31st, 2011] [Originally Added On: July 31st, 2011]
- A New Era in Regenerative Medicine [Last Updated On: August 1st, 2011] [Originally Added On: August 1st, 2011]
- Good Data? $100. Good Product Development? $100. Good Commercialization Strategy? Priceless. [Last Updated On: August 14th, 2011] [Originally Added On: August 14th, 2011]
- Good Data? $100. Good Product Development? $100. Good Commercialization Strategy? Priceless. [Last Updated On: August 14th, 2011] [Originally Added On: August 14th, 2011]
- You and Your Heath TV Show - Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine Part 1 [Last Updated On: August 16th, 2011] [Originally Added On: August 16th, 2011]
- The Future of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine [Last Updated On: August 19th, 2011] [Originally Added On: August 19th, 2011]
- Potential far-reaching implications of the ongoing fight over point-of-care autologous cell therapy [Last Updated On: September 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: September 18th, 2011]
- Commercial-stage Cell Therapy Companies and Products [Last Updated On: September 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: September 18th, 2011]
- Potential far-reaching implications of the ongoing fight over point-of-care autologous cell therapy [Last Updated On: September 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: September 18th, 2011]
- Commercial-stage Cell Therapy Companies and Products [Last Updated On: September 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: September 18th, 2011]
- Cell Therapy & Regenerative Medicine Domains Available [Last Updated On: September 25th, 2011] [Originally Added On: September 25th, 2011]
- Cell Therapy & Regenerative Medicine Domains Available [Last Updated On: September 25th, 2011] [Originally Added On: September 25th, 2011]
- Laurel Barchas: The World Stem Cell Summit brings people together to find therapies [Last Updated On: October 9th, 2011] [Originally Added On: October 9th, 2011]
- Regenerative Medicine - Video [Last Updated On: October 13th, 2011] [Originally Added On: October 13th, 2011]
- Commercializing Cell-based Regenerative Medicines [Last Updated On: November 13th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 13th, 2011]
- Commercializing Cell-based Regenerative Medicines [Last Updated On: November 13th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 13th, 2011]
- C2CAM - 2011.11.15 - Regenerative Medicine - Dulce Base - Video [Last Updated On: November 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 18th, 2011]
- Dr. Craig Saunders Discusses Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine at the Evolution of Fat Workshop - Video [Last Updated On: November 25th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 25th, 2011]
- Sabrina Cohen Foundation Thanks Stem Cell Researchers [Last Updated On: November 27th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 27th, 2011]
- Sabrina Cohen Foundation Thanks Stem Cell Researchers [Last Updated On: November 27th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 27th, 2011]
- Medical tourism in Croatia - Regenerative medicine-Stem cells in reconstructive surgery - Video [Last Updated On: November 28th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 28th, 2011]
- "You and Your Health" TV Show - Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine - Video [Last Updated On: November 28th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 28th, 2011]
- Dr. Craig Saunders Discusses Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine at the Evolution of Fat Workshop - Video [Last Updated On: November 28th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 28th, 2011]
- The Future of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine - Video [Last Updated On: November 28th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 28th, 2011]
- A New Era in Regenerative Medicine - Video [Last Updated On: November 29th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 29th, 2011]
- What is Regenerative Medicine? | Los Angeles | Hollywood | Beverly Hills - Video [Last Updated On: November 29th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 29th, 2011]
- You and Your Heath TV Show - Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine Part 1 - Video [Last Updated On: November 29th, 2011] [Originally Added On: November 29th, 2011]
- Dr Farshchian: Regenerative Medicine shows Potentials - Video [Last Updated On: December 1st, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 1st, 2011]
- An amazing story of stem cells, regenerative medicine and healing power: - Video [Last Updated On: December 1st, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 1st, 2011]
- TEDxPhoenix - Jane Maienschein - Stem Cells, Regenerative Medicine and Us - Video [Last Updated On: December 2nd, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 2nd, 2011]
- Retroviruses, Reproduction, and Regenerative Medicine: The Influence of Federal Funding - Video [Last Updated On: December 2nd, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 2nd, 2011]
- McEwen Centre for Regenerative Medicine - Video [Last Updated On: December 2nd, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 2nd, 2011]
- Mayo Clinic Regenerative Medicine Consult Service - Video [Last Updated On: December 3rd, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 3rd, 2011]
- 4th International Symposium on Regenerative Medicine, Tissue and Genetic Engineering - Video [Last Updated On: December 8th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 8th, 2011]
- StemCellTV Talks to Elona Baum of the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine - Video [Last Updated On: December 10th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 10th, 2011]
- StemCellTV Talks to Morrie Ruffin of Alliance for Regenerative Medicine at Meeting on the Mesa - Video [Last Updated On: December 10th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 10th, 2011]
- StemCellTV Talks to Elona Baum of the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine - Video [Last Updated On: December 10th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 10th, 2011]
- StemCellTV Talks to Morrie Ruffin of Alliance for Regenerative Medicine at Meeting on the Mesa - Video [Last Updated On: December 10th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 10th, 2011]
- Active phase III or II/III cell therapy trials [Last Updated On: December 11th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 11th, 2011]
- Active phase III or II/III cell therapy trials [Last Updated On: December 11th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 11th, 2011]
- 2011 Summit: Harnessing Regenerative Medicine for US Service-members, Major General James K. Gilman - Video [Last Updated On: December 14th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 14th, 2011]
- Inactive and recently failed or terminated phase III or II/III cell therapy trials [Last Updated On: December 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 18th, 2011]
- Recently approved cell therapy products [Last Updated On: December 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 18th, 2011]
- Recently approved cell therapy products [Last Updated On: December 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 18th, 2011]
- Inactive and recently failed or terminated phase III or II/III cell therapy trials [Last Updated On: December 18th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 18th, 2011]
- Stem Cell Clinical Trial for Heart Failure: Eduardo Marban - CIRM Spotlight on Disease - Video [Last Updated On: December 22nd, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 22nd, 2011]
- Stem Cell Clinical Trial for Heart Failure: Eduardo Marban - CIRM Spotlight on Disease - Video [Last Updated On: December 22nd, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 22nd, 2011]
- Coast To Coast AM: 15.11.2011 - Regenerative Medicine/ Dulce Base - Video [Last Updated On: December 24th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 24th, 2011]
- Coast To Coast AM: 15.11.2011 - Regenerative Medicine/ Dulce Base - Video [Last Updated On: December 25th, 2011] [Originally Added On: December 25th, 2011]
- 2011 EMA Committee for Advanced Therapies (CAT) classification record. What can be learned? [Last Updated On: January 1st, 2012] [Originally Added On: January 1st, 2012]
- 2011 EMA Committee for Advanced Therapies (CAT) classification record. What can be learned? [Last Updated On: January 1st, 2012] [Originally Added On: January 1st, 2012]
- ACT Announces Aberdeen Royal Infirmary in Scotland as Additional Site for Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial Using hESC-Derived ... [Last Updated On: January 31st, 2012] [Originally Added On: January 31st, 2012]