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Harnessing the potential of induced pluripotent stem cells for regenerative medicine

2011; Nature Portfolio; Volume: 13; Issue: 5 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1038/ncb0511-497

1476-4679

Sean M. Wu, Konrad Hochedlinger,

Biomedical Ethics and Regulation

The discovery of methods to convert somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) through expression of a small combination of transcription factors has raised the possibility of producing custom-tailored cells for the study and treatment of numerous diseases. Indeed, iPSCs have already been derived from patients suffering from a large variety of disorders. Here we review recent progress that has been made in establishing iPSC-based disease models, discuss associated technical and biological challenges, and highlight possible solutions to overcome these barriers. We believe that a better understanding of the molecular basis of pluripotency, cellular reprogramming and lineage-specific differentiation of iPSCs is necessary for progress in regenerative medicine.