Tissue and Disease Modelling Core

The Tissue and Disease Modelling Core (TDMC) uses patient-derived stem cells and genome editing to model disease and support diagnosis and treatment research.

The Tissue and Disease Modelling Core (TDMC) at BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute offers rapid generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from patient blood samples and genome editing of these iPSCs. TDMC also offers training to users on the proper culture of pluripotent stem cells and their differentiation towards various lineages.

The TDMC enables researchers to access powerful iPSC and genome editing technology to determine the biological mechanisms of disease in patients, and use disease models — built from patient cells — to inform diagnosis and therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Francis Lynn, oversees the scientific and technical operations of the iPSC arm at TDMC, and he has proven expertise in iPSC and genome editing technology. 

Dr. Mahmoud Pouladi leads the scientific and technical operations of the genome editing division at TDMC, ensuring the development and implementation of advanced genome engineering strategies. 

Dr. Pouladi has made significant contributions to genome editing, particularly in the context of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. His research utilizes CRISPR/Cas9 and other genome engineering tools to develop therapeutic strategies for diseases such as Huntington’s disease and fragile X syndrome. 

Basic iPSC Service

Within three months the TDMC can generate three iPSC clones from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (~0.5ml of blood). Included in this service is basic characterization with genetic analysis for chromosome abnormalities.

Genomic Editing Service

Genome editing projects typically take 3–6 months, depending on the complexity of the requested modifications. The service includes:

– Design and validation of genome editing strategy (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9, base editing).
– Transfection and selection of modified iPSC clones.
– Screening and validation of genome edits using sequencing and other molecular techniques.

Project Requirements

To initiate a genome editing project, researchers must provide:

  • Well-characterized iPSC lines (or request TDMC to generate iPSCs before editing).
  • Details on the target gene(s) and desired modifications (knockout, knock-in, point mutation, etc.).
  • Ethics approval (if applicable).

Project Inquiries

For project requests, please complete the TDMC Project Intake Form below.

TDMC Project intake form

For more information on services and pricing, contact:

Momina Masud – momina.masud@ubc.ca