Method for generating primate trophoblasts

Patent Number: 7,148,062

It is known that embryonic stem cells can be differentiated into a wide variety of tissues in vitro. In this patent, methods are disclosed for generating trophoblasts from ES cells through culture in BMP2, BMP4, BMP7, and GDF5.

Although the patent teaches uses of the trophoblasts generated for research purposes, a very interesting possibility is to use them as a source of tumour antigens given the numerous homologies, but in terms of function, and protein content between trophoblasts and tumor cells.

Previous reports of tumor regression induced by immunization with trophoblast extracts have been published both in animal models , as well as in case reports . The current patent may enable standardized generation of such a vaccine.

View this patent on the USPTO website.