Control of growth and differentiation of normal and malignant human pluripotent stem cells [ 2002 - 2004 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Martin Pera (Principal investigator)

Brief description Human embryonic stem cells (ES cells) are cells derived from the early embryo which can be grown in culture for indefinite periods in the primitive embryonic state, while retaining a key feature of the embryonic cells from which they were derived: pluripotentiality, or the ability to give rise to any type of adult tissue cell. Because ES cells represent an unlimited source of any type of human cell, they have great potential for use in research areas such as functional genomics and drug discovery, and in regenerative medicine, the use of transplanted tissue to cure degenerative disease. Our laboratory is one of two in the world to develop human ES cells and the first to demonstrate differentiation of these cells into specialised cells-neurons- in vitro. In order to use ES cells, we need to learn more about how to grow and manipulate them in the laboratory, and how to turn them into desired types of somatic cell. Our study is based on the hypothesis that growth control in human ES cells resembles growth control in the embryo, with interactions between stem cells and their differentiated offspring mediated by signals from membrane bound or soluble proteins directing the differentiation of the stem cells. We have recently identified several key protein regulators of human ES cells. This project will use high throughput analysis of gene expression to pinpoint more candidate regulatory proteins. Then we will use cell culture systems and techniques developed in our laboratory to determine how these proteins may act to control stem cell growth. These studies will result in a greatly improved ability to control stem cells and turn them into specialised cell types for use in research and regenerative medicine. These advances are essential if ES cells are to progress from their current status as an interesting laboratory phenomenon to become a powerful tool for research and medicine.

Funding Amount $AUD 482,640.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant