Event

This session will focus on the applicability of cell culture model systems to study pathophysiological alterations in pulmonary disease and right heart failure. Because animal models do not fully replicate the clinical phenotypes of pulmonary diseases (e.g. pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary edema, cystic fibrosis), alternative methods have been suggested to use. The most promising new tool is induced pluripotent stem cells. During the session, we will discuss the molecular determinants of heart and lung development, knowledge that is essential for the development of clinical relevant disease models. Subsequently, we will discuss the most practical and efficient substrate for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells. Finally, the applicability of pluripotent cell technique in modeling pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary edema, cystic fibrosis and right heart failure will be addressed.