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Abstract

Grant Number:	1R43DK065323-01
PI Name:	LEA-CURRIE, Y RENEE.
PI Email:
PI Title:
Project Title:	Commercialization of Human Visceral Adipocytes

Abstract: DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The US is experiencing an epidemic rise in obesity [1] and related co-morbidities, such as type 2 diabetes. Epidemiological studies demonstrate that these co-morbidities are specifically correlated with visceral (intra-abdominal) fat deposition. To elucidate this association, an ideal model, human visceral adipocytes, must be made available to researchers. Zen-Bio, Inc. will address this need by developing a characterized, commercially accessible source of cultured human visceral preadipocytes. Preliminary data indicate that visceral preadipocytes are distinct from subcutaneous adipocytes, requiring individualized culturing techniques. Aim 1 of this proposal will seek to maximize visceral preadipocyte recovery from small solid tissue samples by improving mechanical and enzymatic dissolution of tissue and removal of contaminating cell types. Aim 2 will focus on expansion of the visceral preadipocytes to at least 20 million cells by developing growth factor cocktails and determining optimal seeding densities. Aim 3 will assess two parameters, advanced age of a donor or increased time post-mortem, for negative impact on total cell recovery, viability and/or growth characteristics. This Phase I SBIR concentrates on developing specialized techniques needed for culture of visceral preadipocytes. In Phase II we will focus on differentiating these cells into mature visceral adipocytes, followed by optimization of cell-based assays to effectively utilize these cells.

Thesaurus Terms:
adipocyte, cell population study, method development, tissue /cell culture
body composition, cell line, cell sorting, growth media
clinical research, human tissue

Institution:	ZEN-BIO, INC.
	BOX 13888, 3200 CHAPEL HILL-NELSON BLVD
	DURHAM, NC 27709
Fiscal Year:	2003
Department:
Project Start:	01-SEP-2003
Project End:	28-FEB-2004
ICD:	NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DIABETES AND DIGESTIVE AND KIDNEY DISEASES
IRG:	ZRG1

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