The Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, and Kaijo Building Clinic of Ishin-kai medical corporation (an affiliate hospital of Tokyo Marine Group), have started collaboration on the iPS Cells Stock for Regenerative Medicine Project.
The project aims to generate and store iPS cells for medical use using blood samples collected from healthy volunteer donors with homozygous HLA. Quality iPS cells will be stocked so that cells can be delivered quickly to medical and research institutions upon request.
HLA (human leukocyte antigen) is the major histocompatibility complex that makes it possible to distinguish between self-cells and non-self-cells. HLA types inherited from the mother and those inherited from the father are different in many cases. A person inheriting the same HLA type from his/her parents has what is called "homozygous HLA". Cells with homozygous HLA are believed to be transplantable for a wider range of recipients.
In this project, CiRA generates iPS cells from homozygous HLA cells of the high-frequency type among the Japanese population, assesses them, and develops the stockpile in facilities and clinical environments. The goal is to develop a stock of iPS cells that cover 30-50% of the Japanese population by the end of FY2017.
This ongoing project had difficulties gathering wider cooperation from people living far from the Kyoto University Hospital, which was the only place where blood samples and thus cells could be collected.
To improve the system for receiving blood samples from volunteer donors, Tokyo Marine and Nichido Fire Insurance Co, Ltd introduced CiRA to Kaijo Building Clinic, which is located in an easily accessible area in Tokyo and available for blood collection through the weekend. The company has supported CiRA by making donations to the iPS Research Fund, and managing risk in the practical application of iPS cells. Collaboration with the Clinic will enable CiRA to reach a wider donor pool with homozygous HLA living in the Kanto region.
CiRA is committed to further accelerating the iPS Cells Stock for Regenerative Medicine Project in coming years.
(From left) Deputy Director of CiRA Naoko Takasu, Director of CiRA Shinya Yamanaka, President and Chief Executive Officer of Tokyo Marine & Niched Fire Insurance Co, Ltd, Toshifumi Kitazawa, Director of Kaijo Building Clinic Kenji Kondo
