High-quality feline induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have been successfully created. These feline iPSCs are also free of specific genetic markers and do not require feeder cells for maintenance. Ongoing research utilizing these stem cells is anticipated to shed light on the development of chronic kidney disease in cats and aid in the creation of treatment options.
While today’s internet is filled with charming cat memes, many cats suffer from kidney disease. In light of medical advancements aimed at enhancing the quality of life for both people and animals, a team from Osaka Metropolitan University has achieved a significant milestone by generating high-quality feline induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), a breakthrough that could benefit pets and humans alike.
Creating human iPSCs typically involves just four genes called transcription factors, but generating feline iPSCs has proven to be challenging. Under the leadership of Professor Shingo Hatoya from the Graduate School of Veterinary Science, the team successfully introduced six transcription factors using the Sendai virus vector to derive feline iPSCs from cat cells, including those harvested from the uterus during sterilization procedures.
The findings, published in Regenerative Therapy, highlight these as the first high-quality feline iPSCs available. They demonstrate many characteristics similar to common iPS cells, such as forming teratomas, which indicates their ability to develop into various cell types. Importantly, these stem cells do not carry a genetic footprint, reducing the likelihood of tumor formation when transplanted into other cats. Additionally, they can thrive without feeder layers, like fibroblast cells from mice, which enhances their safety by eliminating the risk of cross-species cell contamination.
“Chronic kidney disease and diabetes pose significant issues for cats,” stated Professor Hatoya. “Developing a method to generate kidney or pancreas cells from feline iPSCs presents a future research challenge.”
Professor Hatoya, who has also previously shared findings on feeder-free canine iPSCs, emphasized, “The creation of high-quality feline iPSCs through this research is expected to support researchers globally in the fields of veterinary regenerative medicine, genetic disease understanding, and new treatment development.”
