iPS Cells as a potential replacement for ES Cells

Paulino, Luisanna Victoria; Freilich, Alexander Richard; Mulkern, Michelle Elizabeth; Kostopouls, Theodore Paul; Galanis, Andrew John

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iPS Cells as a potential replacement for ES Cells

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The purpose of this project was to investigate whether induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can potentially replace the more controversial embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in therapies. A literature review was performed followed by interviews with key stakeholders in the stem cell field. Our findings indicate that several potential problems exist with iPSCs before they can be used in human therapies, including their slow expansion, the potential for cancer, and the potential for immune-rejection of the injected cells. We identified several best-practice procedures for overcoming each of these problems, but conclude that more studies should be performed directly comparing the effectiveness of iPSCs versus ESCs for specific therapies.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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