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0Researchers have developed an innovative iPSC-derived heart valve assembloid platform that effectively replicates the three-dimensional architecture and cellular composition of human heart valves. By combining cellular fusion techniques with applied mechanical forces and fluidic shear stress, the system successfully induces valve-like structures and promotes extracellular matrix stratification. This experimental model demonstrates that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition plays a vital role in valve development, mimicking processes observed in native tissues. Furthermore, the platform successfully simulates congenital genetic mutations as well as acquired abnormalities such as valve injuries and hyperglycemia-related calcification. Ultimately, this technology establishes a dependable experimental framework to study valvular heart diseases and test targeted pharmacological therapies in vitro.
References:
He Y, Jalili A, Jones C B, et al. Human iPSC-derived heart valve-like assembloids model valve development and disease pathology[J]. Cell stem cell, 2026, 33(9): 1514-1527. e9.
