Characterization and in vitro differentiation potential of a new human embryonic stem cell line, ReliCellhES1

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are an exceptionally useful tool for studies of human development and represent a potential source for transplantation therapies. At present, only a limited number of hESCs lines representing a very small sample of genetic diversity of the human populations are available. Here, we report the derivation and characterization of a new hESC line, ReliCellhES1. These cells, established from the inner cell mass (ICM) on mouse embryonic feeder (MEF) layer, satisfy the criteria that characterize pluripotent hESCs: The cell line expresses high levels of cell surface markers (such as SSEA-3, SSAEA-4, TRA-1-60 and TRA-1-81), transcription factor Oct-4, alkaline phosphatase (AP) and telomerase. The cell line retains normal karyotype in long-term culture and has a distinct identity as revealed by DNA fingerprinting by short tandem repeat (STR) analysis. Further, upon examination of the in vitro differentiation potential, ReliCellhES1 was found to be capable of giving rise to dopaminergic neurons, cardiomyocytes, pancreatic islets, and hepatocyte-like cells belonging to ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm lineages, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a well-characterized hES cell line from the Indian subcontinent.