In Japan, thanks to IPS cells, scientists at the Riken Brain Science Institute have identified a new mutation in neural cells responsible for schizophrenia. They then validated their observations in vivo. Induced pluripotent stem cells were used here to model the disease under investigation.
In Europe, Axiogenesis AG, a biotechnology company specialising in the development and production of cells and tissues derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) for preclinical applications, have just signed an agreement with the Metrion Biosciences Company, specialising in ion channels [1]. The purpose of their joint venture is to market iPS-derived cardiac and neuronal cells to assist therapeutic research into cardiac arrhythmia and pain.
[1] Ion channels are small pores composed of proteins making up the cell membrane.They are responsible for ion transportation.
France Diplomatie (11/11/2016); PRNewswire (7/11/2016)