Research and clinical applications of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells are currently limited by reprogramming methods that may modify the host genome, and therefore be potentially unsafe and problematic for use in basic research, cell-based therapies, and drug-discovery applications. 

Researchers at the National Cancer Institute’s Laboratory of Pathology have overcome this challenge by using CD47 inhibiting peptides, antibodies, and morpholinos to generate and expand iPS cells.  This technology represents a safe yet highly efficient strategy for somatic cell reprogramming, and has broad applicability for basic research and disease modeling. The NCI seeks partners interested in licensing or collaborative research to co-develop methods for generating and expanding iPS cells and lineage-committed stem cells using a single agent.

Competitive Advantages:

• Virus-free reprogramming
• Genomic integration-free
• Allows generation and maintenance of a ready supply of iPS cells and using a single defined agent
• Maintains cell growth and morphology for at least 6 months

Commercial Applications:

• iPS cell generation (human and murine)
• Lineage-committed stem cell generation
• Stem cell therapy