DIRECTED DIFFERENTIATION AND MATURATION OF STEM CELL-DERIVED CARDIOMYOCYTES

Abstract

This invention provides an isolated electrophysiologically immature cell or its derivative that has been modified to provide a mature electrophysiological phenotype and populations of these cells. Compositions containing these cells and populations of cells are also provided by this invention. These cells and compositions have therapeutic and diagnostic uses. Non-limiting therapeutic uses include regenerating cardiac tissue, improving cardiac function, restoring action potential of cardiac tissue; and treating or preventing cardiac malfunction. The cells and population of cells also can be used diagnostically to screen drug or other therapeutic candidate.