The overarching objective of this project is to delineate how iPSCs exit the pluripotent state and differentiate into the three primary germ layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm). SCTL scientists systematically study the underlying cell signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks that govern early cell fate commitment. We use this understanding coupled with state-of-the-art high-throughput screening, single-cell analysis, and genome-wide assays to establish reproducible, translation-grade protocols that are freely available to the research community. We are currently focusing on the generation of pure cell populations of functional neuronal phenotypes (e.g. dopaminergic, GABAergic, glutamatergic), cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes, pancreatic beta-cells and others.

To learn more about ongoing SCTL projects, visit our Projects page.