Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have pioneered a groundbreaking method for generating canine-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from urine samples in dogs. This innovative technique eliminates the need for feeder cells, making the process more efficient, non-invasive, and painless. The development holds significant promise for advancing veterinary regenerative treatments, marking a milestone in canine medical research.
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have been pivotal in human regenerative medicine studies, prompting a growing interest in similar therapeutic applications for companion animals. However, reprogramming canine somatic cells for iPSCs has faced challenges, with lower efficiency compared to human cells. The traditional approach often involves using feeder cells from a different species, but the potential risks have urged scientists to seek alternatives for enhancing reprogramming efficiency in various canine cells without relying on feeder cells.
The research team, led by Professor Shingo Hatoya and Dr. Masaya Tsukamoto from Osaka Metropolitan University’s Graduate School of Veterinary Science, identified six reprogramming genes that significantly boost canine iPSC generation—approximately 120 times more efficient than conventional methods using fibroblasts. The breakthrough allowed for the creation of iPSCs from urine-derived cells, utilizing a non-invasive and straightforward method that avoids the use of feeder cells.
Moreover, the researchers achieved the unprecedented feat of generating canine iPSCs without the need for feeder cells, marking a considerable leap forward in regenerative medicine and genetic disease research in veterinary science. The findings are expected to contribute to advancements in treating various ailments in dogs, enhancing the well-being of these beloved companions.
Professor Hatoya expressed his commitment to further research, stating, “As a veterinarian, I have examined and treated many animals. However, there are still many diseases that either cannot be cured or have not been fully understood. In the future, I am committed to continuing my research on differentiating canine iPSCs into various types of cells and applying them to treat sick dogs, hopefully bringing joy to many animals and their owners.”
The study, titled “Generation of canine induced pluripotent stem cells under feeder-free conditions using Sendai virus vector encoding six canine reprogramming factors,” was published in Stem Cell Reports on December 21, 2023. The research received funding from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, the Japan Science and Technology Agency, Anicom Specialty Medical Institute, Inc, and Osaka Metropolitan University.
