Establishing Genomic Imprinting by Cell Differentiation: a Model System Using Embryonic Germ Cells

The purpose of the invention is to develop the first in vitro model system for studying genomic imprinting. This model system is based upon the development of pluripotent embryonic germ (EG) cells that are capable of differentiating into virtually any somatic cell lineage, with the exception of placenta. Using this system one can induce imprinting in nonimprinted cells by differentiation of these EG cells. This will enable one to identify the factors responsible for imprinting, circumventing the need for cumbersome animal experiments. Before this work, imprinting required germline transmission through mating of animals. Other work suggests that abnormal imprinting may be involved in cancer. The EG cell model system may enable one to identify such factors as well as test potential cancer chemotherapeutics.

Inventor(s): Feinberg, Andrew Paul

Type of Offer: Licensing



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