Self-organized Vascular Networks from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in a Synthetic Matrix

Unmet Need
Tissue regeneration is a large part of a huge market for redeveloping tissues that have been damaged or have lost functionality. The success of tissue regenerative therapies is dependent on functional and multicellular vasculature within the redeveloping tissue. The problem with human endothelial cells (EC), which line the vasculature’s inner lining, is that although they form natural networks, they regress without the supporting cells (pericytes) that surround endothelium. Current solutions addressing this problem include using distinct cell sources of EC’s and pericytes within naturally occurring matrices. But there is limited clinically-relevant human cell sources and an inherent problem of translating chemical properties to the natural physical properties of the human. There is a need to create some approach to construct clinically-relevant microvascular networks in the body that are functional and permanent.
 
Technology Overview
The inventors have proposed self-organized vascular networks from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells (hPSCs) in a synthetic matrix. They are able to derive Early Vascular Cells (EVCs) from these hPSCs due to the properties of morphogenesis, in which hPSCs are able to codifferentiate into these EVCs. These EVCs then mature into endothelial cells and pericytes, allowing them to self-organize to form micro-vascular networks in an engineered matrix. These engineered human vascular networks survive implantation, integrate with the host vasculature, and establish blood flow. This not only addresses the problem of effectively and efficiently regenerating vascular networks that were destroyed or impaired, it also opens up large opportunities for vascular construction and regenerative medicine as a whole.
 
Stage of Development
N/A
 
Publications
Kusuma, S. et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Volume 110. Pp 12601-12606. 2013
 
 

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