Team:ASIJ Tokyo/Future
FUTURE
We chose to execute our project over two years. This year we chose to focus on gaining an understanding of how CRISPR and genetic engineering works. Next year, we plan to use this understanding by working with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) to develop a liver organ bud. iPS cells are a type of pluripotent stem cell that can be generated directly from adult cells, thus eliminating the ethical problems associated with embryonic stem cells. An organ bud, which is 3D and transplantable, is a condensed tissue mass of the early stages of organ formation resulting from the coculture of iPS cells and multiple progenitors. We hope to develop an organ bud that could be used as an alternative treatment for diseases caused by genetic mutations in the liver, such as alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency or diabetes. By using an organ bud, those affected by this type of disease would have access to a one time treatment instead of requiring regular injections. It would also the need for a liver transplant. This would be more cost-effective and practical for patients. Additionally, research conducted by Takanori Takebe of Yokohama City University has shown that liver organ buds can be used to create a vascularized and functional 3D liver organ, massively broadening the horizons in the field regenerative medicine.