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Differentiation of spermatogonial stem cell‐derived embryonic stem (SSC‐ES) cells towards retinal ganglion cells
Author(s) -
Lee TinLap,
Suen Hoi Ching Ashley,
Qian Yan,
Liao Jinyue,
Luk Chun Shui Alfred,
Chan Wai Yee,
Ng Tsz Kin Michael,
Leung Kai Shun Christopher
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.2018.32.1_supplement.816.11
Subject(s) - stem cell , embryonic stem cell , biology , microbiology and biotechnology , adult stem cell , neural stem cell , transplantation , cellular differentiation , immunology , medicine , genetics , gene
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have a wide range of clinical applications. However, its ethical concerns cannot be neglected. In this study, we collected spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) from mouse testes and they were subsequently transdifferentiated to ESC‐like cells through a non‐viral and non‐invasive approach. These SSC‐derived ESC‐like cells exhibited stem cell properties similar to ESCs in terms of morphology and pluripotency gene expression profile. Next, we aimed to generate retinal ganglion cells using spermatogonial stem cell‐derived embryonic stem (SSC‐ES) cells. Following previously established protocols with several modifications, SSC‐ES cells were differentiated towards retinal cell lineage and developed optic vesicles in 7–10 days in in vitro culture, while some cells generated neurites in 13–16 days. These neuron‐like cells were positive for RGC‐specific marker Brn3 b and other neural markers, thus confirming their RGC identity. We will compare the regenerative effect in vivo using transplantation assay. These cell populations could provide a novel cell‐based therapeutic option for retinal degenerative diseases. Support or Funding Information Health and Medical Research Fund, Food and Health Bureau. Hong Kong SAR Government. This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal .