PGNM PLATFORMS

The iPSC department is dedicated to research and development in biology, with a focus on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), genome editing, and complex microphysiological systems.
Our mission is to support and accelerate both basic and translational research by providing access to cutting-edge technologies and expertise in the manipulation of human stem cells and the development of organoids.

1. iPSC Reprogramming and Characterization

• Generation of iPSC lines from skin fibroblasts or blood cells
• Expansion, validation, and quality control of iPSCs
• Full traceability of cell lines
• Ready-to-use iPSC lines (control lines, disease models, inducible lines)

2. Genome Editing with CRISPR/Cas9

• Consulting on gene editing strategies
• Design of gRNAs and repair templates
• Support in the generation of knockout (KO) and knock-in (KI) cell lines for point mutations or tag insertions
• Screening methods and cloning strategies

3. 2D and 3D Cell Differentiation

• Differentiation into neural progenitors
• Generation of cardiomyocytes
• Human cortical organoids
• Patient-derived organoids (PDOs)
• Complex neuromuscular systems
• Development of custom differentiation protocols

4. Training and Support

• Hands-on training in iPSC culture and access to facilities
• Courses on the maintenance and handling of human pluripotent stem cells
• Courses on gene editing technologies
• Personalized support for researchers

2 Training Courses with CFE CNRS (Qualiopi and ISO 9001 certification)
3D Training:

• • 3D Cell Culture from Human Stem Cells: Spheroids and Organoids of the Neural, Muscular, and Cardiac Systems (Training description)

hiPSC Training:

• • hiPSC: Culture, Genome Editing, Quality Control, and Differentiation (Training Description)

5. Upcoming Services (available from Q2 2025)

• Production of differentiated stem cells (neural, cardiac)
• Advanced technologies for spheroids and organoids
• Electrophysiological signal analysis (Multi-Electrode Array system – MEA)
• Microfluidic systems

The iPSC department operates in a biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory and includes the following facilities:

Cell Culture Equipment

• 3 laminar flow hoods
• 4 CO₂ incubators (2 for iPSC culture, 2 for differentiation)
• Makrolite system for clonal isolation
• Cell imaging system (Axion – pending acquisition)
• MEA system (Axion – coming soon)

General Equipment

• Cell counter
• 2 microscopes
• Electroporation system
• Centrifuge
• Dry bath

Sample Storage

• Liquid nitrogen tank for long-term cell storage
• -80°C freezer

The iPSC department works closely with researchers, who can either conduct their experiments independently or receive support from our trained staff. We offer expertise in iPSC technologies and 3D cultures (spheroids, organoids), particularly for neuromuscular and cardiac models.

Our microphysiological systems enable the study of healthy or diseased multicellular tissues, their response to genetic mutations, injury, or pharmacological treatments. These models are powerful tools for translational research and align with the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement).

• Director : Laurent Schaeffer
• Coordinator : Valérie Risson
• Operations Manager : Laurent Coudert
• Scientific Leads : Gaëlle Boncompain, Arnaud Jacquier