Problem:
Recent work published in Cell (2014) by Pagliuca et al, described a technique to generate many millions of pancreatic beta cells from human pluripotent cells in vitro.
Required:
Question 1: Using this approach, why is it important to generate homogeneous populations of beta cells?
Question 2: What techniques can be used to test for and increase homogeneity in mixed cell populations?
Question 3: The beta cells were expanded as cellular aggregates grown in suspension culture using a bioreactor. Which key features of the growth conditions would need to be optimised to maximize cell viability?
Question 4: How would you test if the beta cells functioned in vivo?