Generation of low arrhythmogenic induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes (PSC-CMs) to treat severe heart failure

Project Lead

Associate Professor James Chong, University of Sydney

Project Team

Dr Leila Reyes, University of Sydney; Dr Zoe Clayton, University of Sydney; Dr Sul Ki Kim, University of Sydney

Industry Partner

Stem Core Ltd

Project Summary

Problem

Heart failure is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Australia and worldwide, responsible for millions of deaths annually. It imposes a significant burden on the Australian healthcare system, with costs exceeding $3 billion each year. Current treatments primarily alleviate symptoms without addressing the underlying cause. Advanced options like ventricular assist devices and total artificial hearts are limited by high risks and costs. Heart transplants are curative but suffer from a severe shortage of donor hearts, with only about 4,000 transplants performed annually worldwide compared to 1.1 million new cases of heart failure each year.

Solution

Regenerative medicine, specifically stem cell therapy using pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (PSC-CMs), offers a promising solution to restore heart function. Unlike donor hearts, PSC-CMs are a potentially limitless resource. Preclinical studies have shown PSC-CMs can improve heart function. This project aims to further commercialise low arrhythmogenic PSC-CM methods, building on preliminary data and expertise from the Chong laboratory and Stem Cells Ltd. We hold provisional patents for these methods and are developing a second-generation low arrhythmogenic PSC-CM product, which will provide a significant competitive advantage and be the first of its kind globally

Impact

This project addresses the urgent need for effective cardiac regenerative therapies, offering a potentially limitless supply of cardiomyocytes to treat heart failure. By developing a safer, low arrhythmogenic PSC-CM product, we aim to reduce the risks associated with stem cell therapy and improve patient outcomes. This innovative approach could alleviate the burden on the healthcare system by providing a viable alternative to heart transplants and other costly treatments. Additionally, the commercialisation of this technology positions Australia at the forefront of global cardiac regenerative medicine.