iPSC-Derived MSCs

Unlike cells for tissue replacement, the therapeutic utility of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) relies more on their ability to produce and release beneficial factors to the environment. This can be a more undefined “secretome” as a whole or, alternatively, be single overexpressed factors promoting a therapeutic effect.

However, MSCs from primary sources tend to show a limited proliferation capacity, which makes it hard to scale up corresponding manufacturing workflows. To solve this point, Catalent scientists have developed a GMP-friendly procedure to derive MSC-like cells from iPSCs. The iPSC-MSCs express typical MSC markers and are capable of tri-lineage differentiation into osteocytes, adipocytes, and chondrocytes.

Remarkably, however, at least one of few iPSC lines investigated gave rise to MSC-like cells with outstanding proliferation capacity in that – by extrapolation – up to 1020 cells could be generated from a single small-scale preparation.

iPSC-MSCs can be readily obtained for evaluation based on a Material Transfer Agreement (MTA). Moreover, we offer partnerships to generate iPSC-MSC banks under GMP conditions and to upscale the expansion of the cells after the banking stage.