Platform 01 · The foundational layer for everything we build.

iPSC Platform & Cell Differentiation

Our iPSC core operates as the backbone of every therapeutic program — from cGMP-grade reprogramming and banking to scalable directed differentiation into clinically relevant cell types.

Overview

The Sareen Lab iPSC Core has developed robust, scalable protocols for reprogramming somatic cells from blood, lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs), and cord blood into iPSCs under cGMP-compatible conditions. We operate ISO-certified cleanroom suites and maintain master cell banks for clinical applications.

Our differentiation portfolio spans endothelial cells, insulin-producing beta cells, motor neurons, cardiomyocytes, and vascular smooth muscle — each optimized for large-scale bioreactor production with validated release criteria.

Platform Capabilities

cGMP Reprogramming

Blood, LCL, and cord blood reprogramming using non-integrating episomal vectors under current Good Manufacturing Practice conditions.

Master Cell Banking

Characterization, karyotyping, STR fingerprinting, and cryopreservation of iPSC master and working cell banks for clinical use.

Directed Differentiation

Validated protocols for endothelial, beta cell, motor neuron, cardiomyocyte, and smooth muscle lineages.

Bioreactor Scale-Up

Suspension aggregate and microcarrier-based scale-up in stirred-tank bioreactors from 125 mL to 5L.

Disease Modeling

Over 1,200 patient-derived iPSC lines including the world's largest ALS, SMA, and Marfan syndrome collections.

Quality & Release Testing

Flow cytometry, qPCR, functional assays, and sterility testing for GMP-grade cell product release.

Answer ALS iPSC Biorepository

As part of the Answer ALS consortium, we led the creation of the world's largest ALS patient iPSC biorepository — with over 1,200 patient lines and more than 4,000 clonal iPSCs distributed to researchers globally.

1,200+

Patient iPSC lines

4,000+

Clonal iPSCs distributed

Global

Distribution network