The Lanner lab aims to
Uncover the fundamental principles underlying how the first cell types, totipotency and pluripotency is established in the early human embryo (1-4). We are increasingly using stem cell models to build embryo models (5).
Develop embryonic stem cell-based strategies
We have established a first clinically compliant good manufacturing practice (GMP) grade human embryonic stem cell line, KARO1. KARO1 is now available for collaborators in the stage of clinical translation. We are currently looking into developing genetically engineered versions to combat transplantation rejection (6,7).
Treatment of Diabetes
We are actively working to establish methodology both to efficiently produce glucose responsive beta cells and evaluate the optimal way to deliver these to the patient.
Treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
We have developed highly efficient differentiation protocol to generate retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells for treatment of macular degeneration (8, 9). Based on this we have enter a collaborative agreement with St. Erik Eye Hospital and Novo Nordisk A/S to manufacture hESC-RPE cells (CellThRPE1) to conduct a first-in-human clinical trial aiming to treat AMD. We continue to advance related methodologies and increase our fundamental knowledge of how the different cell types of the retina are established during embryogenesis and in vitro (10).