Generation of smooth muscle cells from mouse embryonic stem cells, using feeder cells

This protocol describes a method for the generation of smooth muscle-like cells from mouse embryonic stem cell, using OP9 feeder cells. The differentiated cells express smooth muscle cell-specific markers. In addition, when the cells are aggregated and cultured on a 3D collagen matrix in the presence of vascular endothelial growth factor, they form long vasculature-like sprouts and express both endothelial and smooth muscle markers.