Grant Award Details

Building a hiPSC-based biopacemaker
Grant Number: 
DISC2-12263
Project Objective: 
  • To bioprint a biopacemaker for allogeneic use, using hiPSC-derived pacemaking cardiomyocytes (PCMs), hiPSC-derived epicardial fibroblasts (FBs) and extracellular matrix proteins (ECMs), and to test its functionality in vitro (pacemaking) and in vivo (longevity under cyclic strain in a heterotopic model)
Investigator: 
Type: 
PI
Disease Focus: 
Heart Disease
Human Stem Cell Use: 
iPS Cell
Award Value: 
$1,260,827
Status: 
Active

Grant Application Details

Application Title: 
  • Building a hiPSC-based biopacemaker
Public Abstract: 

Research Objective

A proof-of-concept biopacemaker constructed by bioprinting hiPSC-derived pacemaking cells and support cells based on the blueprint of the native pacemaking tissue of a large mammalian heart.

Impact

A hiPSC-based biopacemaker bioprinted using a design of the native pacemaking tissue in the heart, with protective electrical and mechanical insulations, can better sustain the pacemaking function.

Major Proposed Activities

  • To make a template for bioprinting hiPSC-based biopacemaker based on the native pacemaking tissue of a large mammalian heart
  • To develop two bioinks composed of hiPSC-derived cardiac cells for bioprinting biopacemakers
  • To optimize the printing conditions for the bioprinter
  • To characterize and assess the function of bioprinted biopacemakers
  • To test the longevity of the biopacemakers subjected to cyclic stretch in a small animal
Statement of Benefit to California: 

Over 350,000 patients a year in the U.S. require an electronic pacemaker to restore their heart rhythm. The annual healthcare burden amounts to $20 billion. Repeated surgeries to replace battery and electrical parts generate additional costs and suffering for patients. A bioprinted hiPSC-based biopacemaker can overcome limitations associated with electronic pacemakers, improve the quality of life for the pacemaker recipient, and reduce the cumulative health care costs.