The main result expected from this sub-project is the generation of  iPS (induced pluripotent cells) lines from pig that can be used in regenerative models to be differentiated through specific protocols towards the haematopoietic and cardiomyocyte line and  hematopoietic stem cells to differentiate towards the endothelial and erythroid cell lineage.

It is expected to get effective protocols for functional differentiation of cardiomyocytes, in a model of chronic heart failure. The obtained cardiomyocytes will be then transplanted and monitored using the optical biopsy system and it is expected to obtain a colonization of the myocardium and a positive effect on cardiac function.

The technique of optical biopsy will be developed, in order to assess the engrafting of transplanted cells and their quantification, as well as pathological conditions that are present or either may occur. One of the most interesting and advanced prospect of the biomedical research is the use of stem cells originated from adult tissues for the treatment of degenerative diseases.

While this option may in some cases offer an alternative strategy to the transplantation of tissues and organs, in other cases its development requires the use of animal models with physiology and size more similar to humans than laboratory rodents. The development of pig stem cell lines would allow the study and development of protocols for regenerative medicine in higher quality models than mice. This opportunity will have important implications in pharmacology and biomedical industry.