Prof. Yossi Buganim

Introduction

  • Technologies that enable the generation of embryonic stem cell-like cells from somatic cells, known as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), have transformed the field of regenerative medicine. These advances enable the production of stem cells with unlimited self-renewal capacity and the ability to differentiate into all cell types, thereby providing a scalable source of cells without the need to sacrifice embryos or use oocytes.
  • The food technology industry, particularly cultured meat, has significant potential to utilize iPSCs as an unlimited source of cells for the production of relevant tissue, including fat, muscle, and blood, for use in cultured food products.
  • However, the generation of stable and fully functional iPSCs from cattle cells, particularly bovine cells, remains a significant barrier that has delayed progress in their utilization. Moreover, the derivation of iPSCs from inbred strains, which dominate the food industry, is even more challenging.
  • The expanding cultivated meat and alternative protein industries require reliable and scalable bovine cell sources for next-generation food production technologies.
  • Current approaches may rely on genetically modified cells or limited cell sources, creating challenges for industrial implementation.

Our Innovation

  • A novel non-GMO reprogramming technology for generating bovine induced pluripotent stem cells from somatic cells.
  • The technology is based on a patented and unique combination of reprogramming factors identified through advanced cellular and molecular analyses across multiple bovine cell types.
  • The approach enables efficient generation of stable and fully functional bovine pluripotent stem cells while maintaining a workflow compatible with future industrial applications.
  • The platform is designed to enable the generation of pluripotent cells from diverse bovine sources, including inbred strains.

Advantages

  • Non-GMO approach for bovine cell reprogramming.
  • Improved reproducibility and efficiency compared with previously reported bovine iPSC methods.
  • Potential compatibility across a broad range of bovine genetic backgrounds, and diverse cattle populations
  • Avoids reliance on bovine embryos or oocytes as a source of pluripotent cells.
  • Provides a scalable and sustainable source of cells for cultivated meat and related food technologies.

Commercial Opportunity

  • We are seeking collaboration with companies in the cultivated meat, alternative proteins, and food biotechnology industries.
  • The technology may provide a scalable platform for generating bovine pluripotent stem cells for cultivated meat production and additional cell-based agriculture applications.