Scientists discovered a groundbreaking technique in 2006. Shinya Yamanaka and his team reprogrammed adult cells into stem cells. They called these induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).
Researchers take ordinary somatic cells, such as skin fibroblasts or blood cells. Then, they introduce four key transcription factors. These factors are Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc — often called Yamanaka factors or OSKM.
The process begins with delivery methods. Scientists use viruses like retroviruses or Sendai virus at first. Later, they switched to safer options. For example, episomal plasmids or mRNA avoid DNA integration. As a result, the risk of tumors decreases.
Once introduced, the factors reset the cell’s identity. They silence genes for the original cell type. Simultaneously, they activate pluripotency genes. This creates epigenetic changes. Consequently, the cell gains self-renewal ability. It also becomes capable of differentiating into any cell type.
iPSCs closely resemble embryonic stem cells. They form teratomas in tests. Moreover, they express markers like Nanog and SSEA-4. Therefore, they serve as a powerful tool.
The real promise lies in regenerative therapies. Doctors generate patient-specific iPSCs. This avoids immune rejection. For instance, they differentiate iPSCs into insulin-producing beta cells. Recent studies show success in treating Type 1 diabetes. In one case, chemically induced iPSCs restored blood sugar control.
Additionally, researchers create heart muscle cells from iPSCs. These repair damaged tissue after heart attacks. Similarly, they produce retinal cells. Early trials help restore vision in macular degeneration patients.
Scientists also develop neural cells for Parkinson’s disease. They replace lost dopamine neurons. Furthermore, liver cells from iPSCs model diseases and test drugs.
Challenges remain, however. Reprogramming efficiency stays low in some cases. Tumor risk from incomplete reprogramming persists. Yet, advances improve safety. Non-integrating methods and chemical cocktails speed up the process.
Overall, iPSC technology transforms regenerative medicine. It offers personalized treatments. It reduces reliance on donor organs. As research progresses, more therapies move to clinical trials.
In summary, reprogramming somatic cells into iPSCs opens new doors. It brings hope for curing degenerative diseases. The field continues to evolve rapidly.
CMP Bio World 