EMD Millipore Launches Simplicon™ RNA Reprogramming Technology for Efficient Generation of Virus-Free iPSCs

EMD Millipore, the Life Science division of Merck KGaA of Darmstadt, Germany, today launched Simplicon™ RNA Reprogramming Technology, which uses synthetic self-replicating RNA to create large numbers of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using a single transfection step. This efficient reprogramming of somatic cells is accomplished without viral intermediates or host genome integration, offering a more defined and safer system for iPSC generation.

"For stem cell researchers using iPSCs to study disease, differentiation and regenerative medicine, there's a real need for a reprogramming method that's as efficient as virus-based techniques yet as safe as non-viral methods," said Christophe Couturier, Head of Bioscience, EMD Millipore. "Simplicon™ technology meets this need, with a single-transfection protocol that's significantly easier than other approaches."

The Simplicon™ RNA Reprogramming Technology uses a single synthetic, polycistronic self-replicating RNA strand engineered to mimic cellular RNA. The RNA strand contains the four reprogramming factors, OCT-4, KLF-4, SOX-2 and GLIS1, and enables the creation of integration- and virus-free iPSCs using only one transfection step. Once the cells are generated, the RNA and reprogramming factors can easily be eliminated from the cell culture medium in a controlled manner.

EMD Millipore is launching the Simplicon™ RNA Reprogramming Technology at the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) annual meeting being held June 18-21 in Vancouver, Canada. Attendees can learn more about the technology at the following ISSCR events:

• Innovation Showcase: Virus-free, Efficient Reprogramming Using a Single Transfection of a Synthetic, Polycistronic Self-Replicating RNA
Friday, June 20; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (lunch will be provided)
Vi Chu, Ph.D., Manager II, R&D, Stem Cells/Cell Biology
West Ballroom C/D

• Poster Presentation: Single Transfection of a Synthetic Polycistronic Self-Replicative RNA with Small Molecules Yields High Numbers of Human iPSCs
Thursday, June 19; 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Min Lu, R&D Scientist III
Poster T2155