WELCOME TO
The EXCELLENT UNIT of WILDLIFE STEM CELLS (eWIS)
หน่วยความเป็นเลิศด้านสเต็มเซลล์สัตว์ป่า 
ภายใต้ศูนย์นวัตกรรมทางการสืบพันธุ์สัตว์ป่า และ
ภาควิชาชีววิทยา คณะวิทยาศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยบูรพา

The eWIS initiative brings together a team of stem cell scientists and veterinarians, forging connections between universities and zoos. The primary objective is to explore the immense potential of stem cell technology in establishing a biobank comprised of stem cells derived from endangered mammalian and avian species. Our research focuses on species that require urgent preservation efforts to safeguard genetic diversity through the collection of viable cells capable of generating entire animal bodies, known as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Additionally, we are striving to generate wild felid/ domestic and non-domestic cat embryonic stem cells.

 

Our primary focus lies in wild felid species, including fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) and clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), and domestic cat (Felis catus) as a model. Our goal is to generate iPSCs from these wild cats, unravelling the possibilities of utilizing iPSCs for conservation purposes through in vitrogametogenesis, animal cloning, and assisted reproductive technology (ART). We are also devoted to establishing wild avian iPSCs, with specific attention given to hornbills and peafowl.

 

Furthermore, we employ a range of evolutionary tools to delve into the conservation and divergence of pluripotency networks across various vertebrate species. In particular, our research involves studying Oct4 homologues to comprehend the effects of evolutionary changes on conserved and diverged Oct4 functions. The profound insights gained from understanding the Oct4 network and early developmental programs contribute to translational approaches, aimed at overcoming reprogramming barriers in wild species.