Cellular plasticity in reprogramming, rejuvenation and tumorigenesis: a pioneer TF perspective

Trends Cell Biol. 2023 Aug 28:S0962-8924(23)00157-5. doi: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.07.013. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTThe multistep process of in vivo reprogramming, mediated by the transcription factors (TFs) Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc (OSKM), holds great promise for the development of rejuvenating and regenerative strategies. However, most of the approaches developed so far are accompanied by a persistent risk of tumorigenicity. Here, we review the groundbreaking effects of in vivo reprogramming with a particular focus on rejuvenation and regeneration. We discuss how the activity of pioneer TFs generates cellular plasticity that may be critical for inducing not only reprogramming and regeneration, but also cancer initiation. Finally, we highlight how a better understanding of the uncoupled control of cellular identity, plasticity, and aging during reprogramming might pave the way to the development of rejuvenating/regenerating strategies in a nontumorigenic manner.PMID:37648593 | DOI:10.1016/j.tcb.2023.07.013
Source: Trends in Cell Biology - Category: Cytology Authors: Source Type: research