Atelocollagen supports three-dimensional culture of human induced pluripotent stem cells

As autologous iPSC therapy requires a custom-made small-lot cell production line, the cell production method differs significantly from the existing processes for producing allogeneic iPSC stocks for clinical use. Specifically, mass culture to produce stock is no longer necessary; instead, a series of operations from iPSC production to induction of differentiation of therapeutic cells must be performed continuously. A 3D culture method using small, closed-cell manufacturing devices is suitable for autologous iPSC therapy. Use of such devices avoids the need to handle many patient-derived specimens in a single clean room; handling of cell cultures in an open system in a cell processing facility increases the risk of infection. In this study, atelocollagen beads were evaluated as a three-dimensional biomaterial to assist 3D culture in the establishment, expansion culture, and induced differentiation of iPSCs. It was found that iPSCs can be handled in a closed-cell device with the same ease as use of 2D culture when Laminin-511 is added to the medium. In conclusion, atelocollagen beads enable 3D culture of iPSCs, and the quality of the obtained cells is at the same level as those derived from 2D culture.