Abstract: Provided herein are methods of enriching a retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell population derived from stem cells. Such a method may comprise removing contaminating cells through the depletion of CD24 positive cells, CD56 positive cells, and/or CD90 positive cells from a starting population of RPE cells.

Abstract: Certain aspects and features relate to using an image modifier to generate digital designs and to printing the digital designs on a structure for flooring or other decoration that can more realistically mimic designs found in nature or otherwise provide designers with the freedom to create aesthetic designs more easily. An image modifier can receive an image, such as an image of a naturally occurring view and generate modified designs based on the image. The modified designs can be slight modifications to the image and printed on the structures for flooring such that together the printed structures exhibit the appearance of a design found in nature or a desired appearance by a designer.

Abstract: A scaffold-stretching system includes at least one stretchable loading chamber configured to support a scaffold material and a supply of cells, such as human skin substitute cells, and is configured to allow for cultivation of a cellular three-dimensional scaffold; and a mechanical loading system is configured for application of cyclic and static uniaxial tensile mechanical loading on the cellular three-dimensional scaffold, and is configured to mimic the in vivo environment of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and other tissues that experience uniaxial strains.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, systems, and implementations for creating 3-dimensional (3D) representations exhibiting geometric and surface characteristics of brain lesions are disclosed. 2D and/or 3D MRI images of the brain may be acquired. Brain lesions and other abnormalities may be identified and isolated with each lesion serving as a region of interest (ROI). Saved ROI may be converted into stereolithography format, maximum intensity projection (MIP) images, and/or orthographic projection images. Data corresponding to these resulting 3D brain lesion images may be used to create 3D printed models of the isolated brain lesions using 3D printing technology. Analysis of the 3D brain lesion images and the 3D printed brain lesion models may enable a more efficient and accurate way of determining brain lesion etiologies.

Abstract: The purpose of the present invention is to provide immortalized stem cells for producing culture supernatant that can be used in the treatment of human diseases. Provided is a method for producing immortalized stem cells, the method being provided with: a step for producing a DNA fragment that includes a telomerase reverse transcriptase and at least one gene selected from the group consisting of Bmi-1, human papilloma virus E6, and human papilloma virus E7; a step for producing a viral vector that incorporates the DNA fragment including the gene; a step for transfecting the viral vector into mammalian stem cells and introducing the gene into the stem cells; and a step for culturing the stem cells into which the gene was introduced and using a drug to select immortalized stem cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of mammalian cell culture, and provides methods and compositions for cell attachment to, cultivation on and detachment from a solid substrate surface containing from at least about 0.5% N, a sum of O and N of greater than or equal to 17.2% and a contact angle of at least about 13.9 degrees, lacking a feeder cell layer and lacking an adlayer. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cells are treated with a compound capable of inhibiting Rho kinase activity. In another embodiment, the cells are treated with a compound capable of inhibiting Rho activity.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a ? myosin heavy chain in cardiac muscle cells differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells derived from Homo sapiens. In the present method, first, a liquid culture medium containing the cardiac muscle cells is supplied onto a substrate comprising a first electrode, a second electrode and insulative fibers on the surface thereof. At least a part of the insulative fibers is located between the first electrode and the second electrode in a top view of the substrate. Then, the substrate is left at rest. Finally, the cardiac muscle cells are cultivated, while a pulse electric current is applied to the cardiac muscle cells through the first electrode and the second electrode.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an siRNA that inhibits K-RAS gene expression, and the precursor sequences and applications thereof. The K-RAS siRNA and its precursor sequences provided by the present invention can efficiently inhibit the expression of the K-RAS gene, and in vivo experiments have shown that the K-RAS siRNA has a certain inhibitory effect on tumours highly expressing K-RAS. The precursor of the siRNA of the invention and its vector can form a stable siRNA that functions in a host.

Abstract: The invention provides an automated system for producing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from adult somatic cells. Further, the system is used for producing differentiated adult cells from stem cells.

Abstract: Culture media, which contain chelated iron, promote cell proliferation of neural stem cells and/or neural progenitor cells while maintaining undifferentiated state and multipotency.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the acceleration of hematopoietic compartment reconstitution in a subject in need of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation by administering a composition having a protein transduction domain-MYC (PTD-MYC) fusion protein in combination with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and to the enhancement of hematopoietic compartment autoreconstitution in a subject in need thereof by administering a composition having a protein transduction domain-MYC (PTD-MYC) fusion protein.

Abstract: A liquid delivery device includes a first and second container for a first and second liquid; a third container for receiving a first and second liquid; a fourth container into which a first and second liquid are discharged; a fifth container for a third liquid; a first liquid delivery tube for delivering a first liquid; a second liquid delivery tube for delivering a second liquid; a third liquid delivery tube connected to the first and second liquid delivery tube; a first liquid delivery pump on the third liquid delivery tube; a fourth liquid delivery tube for discharging a first liquid contained in the third container and delivering a third liquid to the third container; a fifth liquid delivery tube connected to the fourth liquid delivery tube; a sixth liquid delivery tube connected to the fourth liquid delivery tube; and a second liquid delivery pump on the fourth liquid delivery tube.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods for the efficient in vitro differentiation of somatic cell-derived pluripotent stem cells to hematopoietic precursor cells, and the further differentiation of the hematopoietic precursor cells into immune cells of various myeloid or lymphoid lineages, particularly T cells, NK cells, and dendritic cells. The pluripotent cells may be maintained and differentiated under defined conditions; thus, the use of mouse feeder cells or serum is not required in certain embodiments for the differentiation of the hematopoietic precursor cells.

Abstract: Variations in the differentiation and lineage potential of stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells, currently limit their therapeutic use. The ability to identify, isolate, and specifically amplify stem cell populations with desired differentiation potential would contribute the use of stem cells in research and therapy. The present invention discloses a method of assessing differentiation potential of stem cells by measuring the differential expression of antigens CD 146 and NG2 on the stem cells. The correlation between CD 146 and NG2 expression and differentiation and trilineage potential is explored. The invention also discloses methods to specifically amplify or enrich stem cells with desired differentiation potential, monitor the differentiation potential of a heterogeneous stem cell population, quantify the heterogeneity in differentiation potential of a stem cell culture, and remove stem cells with specific differentiation potentials from a heterogeneous cell culture.

Abstract: The invention pertains to the use of VirB10 to immunize a host against an infection by a bacterium having T4SS. The invention provides a vaccine comprising VirB10, a fragment of VirB10, a polynucleotide encoding VirB10 or a polynucleotide encoding a fragment of VirB10 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or adjuvant. The invention also provides a method of immunizing a host against an infection caused by a bacterium having T4SS, the method comprising administering to the host a vaccine of the invention. The vaccines and the methods of the invention can be used to immunize against infections caused by bacteria having T4SS in dogs, rabbits, cats, pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, deer, horses, rodents and humans.

Abstract: A method of preparing viable stromal and mesenchymal stem cells from adipose tissue that produces high quality and high counts of stem cells with a low risk of contamination. The apparatus provides ultrasonic waves through a constant temperature bath to the tissue held in a sterile sonication container such as a test tube or jar. No sonication probe touches the tissue or the cells during the process. The stem cells produced are ready to be administered to a patient.

Abstract: This disclosure generally concerns the fields of cell biology and molecular biology. In particular the invention concerns the field of stem cell biology and maturation of stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Disclosed is a method for improving the maturity of stem-cell derived cardiomyocytes, in particular of the ventricular type, as can be witnessed by, for example, an improved upstroke velocity of the stem-cell derived cardiomyocytes.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are antisense compounds and methods for decreasing alpha-synuclein mRNA and protein expression. Also disclosed herein are methods for treating, preventing, and ameliorating neurodegenerative diseases in an individual in need thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of obtaining aggregates containing a rostral hypothalamus tissue and a rostral head ectodermal tissue, a hypophysis precursor tissue and a hypophysis hormone producing cell, by using a serum-free medium (preferably substantially free of growth factor and insulins), forming homogeneous aggregates of stem cells from pluripotent stem cells such as ES cell and the like, which are plated at a high cell concentration, and subjecting the formed aggregates to floating-culture.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the generation of mesodermal cell types and derivatives thereof. Also provided are methods for generating purified populations of mesodermal cell types and derivatives thereof. The instant disclosure also provides methods of screening for cellular responses of the generated mesodermal cell types and derivatives thereof. Also provide are methods for screening for organismal phenotypes induced by introduction of the generated mesodermal cell types and derivatives thereof. Treatment methods making use of the generated mesodermal cell types and derivatives thereof are also provided. The instant disclosure also provides systems, compositions, and kits for practicing the methods of the disclosure.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a cell culture vessel comprising a copolymer which contains a recurring unit containing an organic group of the following formula (a) and a recurring unit containing an organic group of the following formula (b) being coated onto a surface thereof, a method for manufacturing the same and a method for manufacturing a cell aggregate using the same (wherein Ua1, Ua2, Ub1, Ub2 and Ub3, and An? are as defined in the present specification and the claims).

Abstract: Methods and systems for generating MGE precursor cells in vitro as well as compositions of enriched MGE precursor cells are provided. The methods and systems provide efficient production of MGE precursors. The methods and systems disclosed herein provide functional MGE precursors which differentiate into functional GABAergic interneurons.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of manufacturing and differentiating mammalian stem cells, and in one embodiment human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSc), e.g., manufacturing neuron progenitors, e.g., derived from iPSC, on a large scale by the use of an automated hollow fiber reactor system. In one embodiment, human iPSc that can be differentiated into cardiomyocytes or neuron progenitors are provided. The method comprises seeding a hollow fiber reactor with stem cells such as iPSc, or differentiated iPSc, growing and expanding the seeded cells using appropriate growth factors and nutrients, and harvesting the cells after expansion from the hollow fiber reactor walls, e.g., with the use of an enzyme. The method can produce billions of cells per week from seeding the reactor with a minimum number of starting stem cells or neuron progenitor cells.

Abstract: There are disclosed compositions for achieving reverse phase characteristics, methods of preparation thereof, and the use of amniotic tissue for cartilage repair. In an embodiment, a biocompatible articular tissue repair composition may have a therapeutic material and a carrier configured for achieving reverse phase characteristics, and methods for using the composition. In various embodiments, the therapeutic material may be amniotic tissue. In various embodiments, the carrier may be a poloxamer such as poloxamer 407. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: Optimized inhibitory nucleic acids are provided. The nucleic acids have sequences which include an optimal inhibitory motif, such as a GGG. Related methods are also described.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods to promote the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into insulin producing cells. In particular, the present invention provides a method to produce cells expressing markers characteristic of the pancreatic endocrine lineage that co-express NKX6.1 and insulin and minimal amounts of glucagon.

Abstract: Methods of preparing ovarian tissue for primordial follicle growth are presented comprising the steps: providing an ovarian tissue sample comprising cortical tissue and stromal tissue; removing damaged tissue from the ovarian tissue sample where present; removing excess stromal tissue from the ovarian tissue sample where present; and then mechanically stretching the ovarian tissue sample along at least one dimension of the ovarian tissue sample, such that the size of the ovarian tissue sample along the at least one dimension is increased by at least 10%. Methods of growing viable oocyte in vitro, and methods of preparing individual ovarian follicles for growth are also presented.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of inducing the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived embryoid bodies into ectoderm by CXCR2 stimulation, and more particularly, to a method of promoting the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived embryoid bodies into ectoderm by stimulating and activating the surface receptor CXCR2 of the embryoid bodies with the CXCR2-specific ligand GRO-?. The method of inducing the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived embryoid bodies into ectoderm by CXCR2 stimulation according to the present invention can increase the efficiency and utility of stem cells as a cell therapeutic agent, because it promotes the differentiation of stem cells into a specific germ layer serving as the origin of target cells, which is the first important step for inducing the differentiation of stem cells into specific cells.

Abstract: The embodiments of the invention described herein relate to systems and methods for culturing and/or maintaining intestinal cells, tissues and/or organoids in vitro. The cells, tissues and/or organoids cultured according to the methods and systems described herein can mimic or reproduce natural intestinal epithelial structures and behavior as well as support co-culture of intestinal microflora.

Abstract: A composition for sealing defects in structural materials such as roads or paved surfaces, the composition preferably comprising one or more shape memory polymer (SMP) components capable of responding to increased temperature by decreasing in volume. Smart SMP-based sealants of the invention serve to avoid adhesion failure between a sealant and the repaired structure when the repaired structure is subjected to varied temperatures that cause thermal expansion and contraction.

Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a method of sorting a skeletal muscle progenitor cell from a cell population containing the skeletal muscle progenitor cell. The above-mentioned problem is solved by providing a step of introducing miRNA-responsive mRNA into a cell population. The miRNA-responsive mRNA contains (i) a nucleic acid having a sequence specifically recognized by miRNA specifically expressed in a skeletal muscle progenitor cell, and (ii) a nucleic acid containing a sequence encoding a marker protein.

Abstract: Methods and composition for the production of cardiomyocytes from differentiation of pluripotent stem cells are provided. For example, in certain aspects methods including differentiating pluripotent stem cells in a large volume of suspension culture in the presence of ROCK inhibitors are described. In further aspects, methods for differentiation of stem cells into cardiomyocytes that overcome variability between different stem cell clones and different batch of culture medium are provided.

Abstract: The present invention includes methods for transferring a multigenic phenotype to a cell by transfecting, preferably by phototransfection, and locally transfecting a cell or a cellular process with a laser while the cell is bathed in a fluid medium comprising two or more nucleic acids, thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the interior of the cell. Expression of the nucleic acids results in a multigenic phenotype in the tranfected cell.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to an apparatus for positioning and securing an excised biological tissue specimen for imaging and analysis. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a sample bag defining an inner volume configured to receive a biological tissue sample, and a sealing member coupled to the sample bag. An imaging window is disposed and configured to be placed in contact with at least a portion of the biological tissue sample, and a positioning member is coupled to the imaging window and is configured to be disposed against the sealing member to substantially seal the inner volume. The positioning member includes a vacuum port disposed and configured to be aligned with a vacuum source to withdraw air from the inner volume of the sample bag.

Abstract: Embodiments for coating a bioreactor with a reagent are described. The embodiments may provide for changing flow rates, direction of flow, and/or bioreactor rotation to enhance the coating of the bioreactor prior to growing cells in the bioreactor.

Abstract: Compositions of HLA-G+ MSC and methods of using them, including methods of transplanting compositions of HLA-G+ MSC into human recipients, are provided. Also provided are methods of preparing compositions of HLA-G+ MSC, including by treatment with DNA methylation inhibitors.

Abstract: A transfer device designed to extract an amorphous or semi-solid structure, tissue, or construct from supporting media while maintaining the spatial integrity/organizational architecture thereof. The transfer device can include a controller, an actuator assembly, a plunger, and a needle. The controller can move the transfer device and the plunger independently.

Abstract: In certain aspects, provided herein are RNA complexes (e.g., asymmetric RNA complexes, such as asiRNAs or cell penetrating asiRNAs) that inhibit ANGPT2 and/or PDGFB expression and are therefore useful for treating angiogenesis-associated diseases, such as cancer, AMD, and DME.

Abstract: The tissue construct with viable cells in an extracellular matrix made of fibrin is produced with a special method, in which a matrix material and cells are shaped into a hollow body, in particular a tubular hollow body, by means of a rotational casting method in a hollow mould (1), the method comprising the following steps: (a) introduction of cells of at least one cell type and/or a fibrinogen preparation into the rotating hollow mould (1) with the aid of an applicator (4), said applicator (4) being displaced along the rotational axis during the introduction and step (a) being performed one or more times; (b) continuation of the rotation process until the fibrinogen solidifies into a dimensionally stable matrix, obtaining a primarily solidified tissue construct; (c) removal of the tissue construct from the mould. The construct can also he obtained in a relatively short time from autologous materials.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods for producing genetically modified cells expressing HLA-G (e.g., cell surface HLA-G) persistently, and nucleic acid compositions useful for generating such genetically modified cells. Also disclosed are cell therapy methods that utilize genetically modified cells that express HLA-G persistently. The HLA-G genetic modifications described herein provide the cells with characteristics of reduced immunogenicity and/or improved immunosuppression, such that these cells have the promise of being universal or improved donor cells for transplants, cellular and tissue regeneration or reconstruction, and other therapies.

Abstract: An object is to provide a method of manufacturing a vessel for embryoid body formation excellent in formability of an embryoid body and suitable for optical observation.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods to promote the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells and the products related to or resulting from such methods. In particular, the present invention provides an improved method for the formation of pancreatic hormone expressing cells and pancreatic hormone secreting cells. In addition, the present invention also provides methods to promote the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells without the use of a feeder cell layer and the products related to or resulting from such methods. The present invention also provides methods to promote glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in insulin-producing cells derived from pluripotent stem cells.

Abstract: A demineralized bone matrix is produced by a process in which a bone body is placed in a first processing solution comprising an acid to demineralize the bone body. The bone body is periodically removed from the first solution at specific time intervals to perform at least one test, such as a compression test, on a mechanical property of the bone body. When the test yields a desired result, the bone body is exposed to a second processing solution that is less acidic than the first, thus minimizing the exposure of the bone body to the harsh acidic conditions of the demineralization phase of the process.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of in vitro culturing or expanding human or animal tissue (2, 2?). The method comprises: obtaining a sample of human or animal tissue; downsizing tissue (21, 21?) of the sample; generating an assembly by placing the downsized tissue on a scaffold or hydrogel (22, 22?); arranging the assembly inside a culture chamber of a 3D perfusion system (23, 23?); and perfusing the assembly in the 3D perfusion system for a predefined time (24, 24?). The method according to the invention allows for preparing and directly culturing in vitro fresh tissue specimens for a high efficient in vitro culturing using a perfused bioreactor system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to hyaluronic acid-rich node and duct system (HAR-NDS)-derived stem cells, a method for separating the same, and a use thereof and, more specifically, to node and ductal stem cells (NDSCs), which are adult stem cells having an ability to differentiate into HAR-NDS-derived neural cells, and hematopoietic stem cells having an ability to differentiate into blood cells. The present invention is capable of separating, from HAR-NDS, adult stem cells NDSCs and hematopoietic stem cells, which are not easy to obtain from bone marrow, peripheral blood and umbilical cord blood (cord blood), as an alternative source, and thus can be usefully used for treatment of brain diseases, neurological diseases, chronic infectious diseases, cancers, autoimmune diseases, organ regeneration treatments and various intractable diseases.

Abstract: Improved methods of culturing embryos in media having amounts of lactate that have not previously been recognized as beneficial for embryo development. Also, compositions, devices and kits related to the same.

Abstract: The present invention provides cell populations that are enriched for mesendoderm and mesoderm, and cell populations that are enriched for endoderm. In accordance with the present invention, a selectable marker gene has been recombinantly targeted to the brachyury locus to allow the isolation and characterization of cell populations that comprise brachyury positive mesendoderm and mesoderm cells. The cell populations of the invention are useful for generating cells for cell replacement therapy.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of preparing aggregated pluripotent stem cell clusters for differentiation.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of preparing aggregated pluripotent stem cell clusters for differentiation. Specifically, the invention discloses methods of differentiating pluripotent cells into beta cell, cardiac cell and neuronal cell lineages using suspension clustering. The methods involve preparing the aggregated cell clusters followed by differentiation of these clusters.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tissue-engineered intervertebral disc (IVD) suitable for total disc replacement in a mammal and methods of fabrication. The IVD comprises a nucleus pulposus structure comprising a first population of living cells that secrete a hydrophilic protein and an annulus fibrosis structure surrounding and in contact with the nucleus pulposus structure, the annulus fibrosis structure comprising a second population of living cells and type I collagen. The collagen fibrils in the annulus fibrosis structure are circumferentially aligned around the nucleus pulposus region due to cell-mediated contraction in the annulus fibrosis structure. Also disclosed are methods of fabricating tissue-engineered intervertebral discs.