Travel to University of Washington (Seattle, USA) to acquire expertise in handling and maturation of human iPSC cardiomyocytes

We propose a one-month research visit to acquire specialist expertise in the differentiation, maturation, and functional characterisation of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). This visit will be to the internationally recognised University of Washington Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, working with Professor Michael Regnier. The Regnier Lab has been developing methods to culture hiPSC-CMs and study them using mechanical loading and sophisticated biophysical assays of contractile performance. The primary purpose of this visit is to build up the strength of the UK research base. The project focuses on using hiPSC-CMs as a tractable, human-based system to probe the molecular and mechanical properties of the sarcomere. We will send a PhD student to work directly with researchers at the Regnier Lab, to gain hands-on experience of the complete workflow: from iPSC differentiation and maturation, to functional assays such as myofibril preparation, contractility, and calcium responses. An important outcome from this project will be the ability to study mutations of sarcomeric proteins, which is more easily possible in this model and more relevant to human muscle function. The knowledge and methods acquired through this visit will significantly expand the UK’s technical repertoire, enabling the establishment of hiPSC-CM-based platforms for studying sarcomeric mechanisms. Upon return, the student will establish this technology in the Kad lab and apply their expertise to generate new outcomes that are beyond the reach of current approaches globally. Therefore, this visit will spearhead the development of a world-leading technology between the two labs. This initiative will begin a longer-term collaboration rather than act as a standalone training visit. Kad and Regnier will provide strategic oversight throughout the project through weekly meetings (virtual from Kent) with the student to ensure alignment of the experience with aimed for research goals. Towards the end of the student’s visit, Kad will engage directly with Regnier and his group to initiate plans for a sustained collaboration. We will use this visit to draft applications for future exchanges and funding applications to establish a formal collaboration to understand muscle mechanics and dynamics in the new way. By enabling this exchange of important knowledge and technology between leading international groups, this visit directly supports the strategic enhancement of UK research capacity in fundamental study of muscle biology.