Stem Cell Biology

The Fraunhofer ITMP stem cell team generates customized and subsequently characterize human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) from both healthy donors and patients. Robust differentiation protocols for various cell types ((neuro)ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermal) are used for the differentiation of these cells, whereby both 2D and 3D formats (including organoids) are used.

Another important aspect of our work is the multiparametric cellular phenotyping of hiPSC-based disease models enabled by high-content imaging. In addition, the work includes the development and adaptation of assays and process automation to increase their efficiency and throughput.

The assessment of the efficacy and toxicity of small molecule drug candidates also plays a central role. In this context, permeation studies are carried out using in-vitro blood-brain barrier models to analyze the permeability of potential active substances.

Service offering:

• Customized generation and quality control of hiPSC (healthy donor and patient-derived)
• Use of robust cellular differentiation protocols into (neuro)ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermal cell types (2D and 3D)
• Multiparametric cellular phenotyping of hiPSC disease models (high-content imaging)
• Assay development, adaptation and process automation
• Evaluation of the efficacy and toxicity of small molecules
• Permeability studies with in-vitro blood-brain barrier models