Regeneration through Reprogramming Adult Cell Identity in Vivo.

Regeneration through Reprogramming Adult Cell Identity in Vivo.
Am J Pathol. 2015 Jun 6;
Authors: Smith DK, Zhang CL
Abstract
The discovery and in vivo application of cell fate reprogramming concepts have jumpstarted new technologies aimed at the functional regeneration of damaged tissues. Because most adult organ systems retain only a limited potential for self-regeneration after trauma, the production of fate-specific cells by in vivo transdifferentiation offers a targeted method for tissue bioengineering. Proof-of-principle studies have demonstrated the induction of neural precursor cells, neurons, cardiomyocytes, and insulin-producing β-islet cells. Each of these induced cell types survive, mature, and integrate into the local environment in a functionally meaningful manner. Here, we briefly highlight recent advances in the in vivo reprogramming of cell identity and the current challenges that face the clinical relevance of these methods.
PMID: 26056931 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Source: The American Journal of Pathology - June 6, 2015 Category: Pathology Authors: Smith DK, Zhang CL Tags: Am J Pathol Source Type: research