Circadian rhythm-based differentiation of iPS cells to cardiomyocytes

Grant Project Details:

Awardee:
Nobuaki J. Kikyo, MD, PhD
Timeframe:
2018-2020
Location:
University of Minnesota Stem Cell Institute | Minneapolis, MN
Amount:
$250,000
Status:
In Process
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Grant Location

University of Minnesota Stem Cell Institute
2001 6th St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455

Grant Description

Many regenerative therapies are based on using a patient’s own cells to create induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells that can then be differentiated (transformed) into other cell types that the patient needs. This investigator’s previous research found that differentiation of human iPS cells to cardiomyocytes is regulated by circadian rhythms (like our internal body clock). This project hopes to establish a new way to accelerate the differentiation process, which will allow treatments to reach patients faster.

Grant Awardee Biography

image of Nobuaki Kikyo, MD, PhD

Dr. Kikyo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, and a member of the Stem Cell Institute at the University of Minnesota. His research interests include chromatin remodeling in iPS cells, direct conversion of fibroblasts to cardiomyocytes, and the role of long non-coding RNA in stem cells.