Reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has revolutionized stem cell research. However, not every cell converts completely into pluripotent state. Our Epi-Pluri-Score provides a robust method for the classification of human cells into pluripotent and non-pluripotent cells.
How does it work?
Our epigenetic pluripotency biomarker is based on DNA methylation (DNAm) levels at three specific CpG sites: two CpGs are located within the genes ANKRD46 (methylated in pluripotent cells) and C14orf115 (non-methylated in pluripotent cells) that are combined as Epi-Pluri-Score. The third CpG is located within the pluripotency gene POU5F1 (OCT4) and demarcates early differentiation events. A positive Epi-Pluri-Score indicates pluripotency. Validation of the Epi-Pluri-Score has been performed on 2,215 independent DNA methylation profiles and demonstrated 99,9% specificity and 98,9% sensitivity.
Comparison with conventional pluripotency assays
Several methods can be applied for quality control of human iPSCs, such as teratoma formation, expression of pluripotency-associated genes, or staining of molecular markers (e.g. OCT4, NANOG, TRA-1-60) via immunofluorescence. However, these approaches either require time- and labour-intensive animal experiments or they are not easy to standardize. In contrast, our Epi-Pluri-Score provides a quantitative measure.
NEW
We have further improved Epi-Pluri-Score and you can now simply pipet your cells on filter paper and send us the dried cell spots. The Protein Cards can be stored at room temperature for at least half a year and be easily shipped by mail. Please contact us if you are interested in this test for your cells.
Relevant literature
Lenz M., Goetzke R. et al., Epigenetic Biomarker to Support Classification into Pluripotent and Non-Pluripotent Cells Scientific Reports 2015
Patent application: 2014; EP 14192699.8