Embryonic stem cells overexpressing Pitx2c engraft in infarcted myocardium and improve cardiac function.

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the effects on cardiomyocyte differentiation of embryonic stem cells by the overexpression of the transcription factor, Pitx2c, and examined the effects of transplantation of these differentiated cells on cardiac function in a mouse model of myocardial infarction. Pitx2c overexpressing embryonic stem cells were characterized for cardiac differentiation by immunocytochemistry, RNA analysis, and electrophysiology. Differentiated cells were transplanted by directed injection into the infarcted murine myocardium and functional measurements of blood pressure, contractility, and relaxation were performed. Histochemistry and FISH analysis performed on these mice confirmed the engraftment and cardiac nature of the transplanted cells. Pitx2c overexpressing embryonic stem cel

SUBMITTER: Guddati AK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3806488 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature