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Rehman A, Fatima I, Noor F, Qasim M, Wang P, Jia J, Alshabrmi FM, Liao M. Role of small molecules as drug candidates for reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells: A comprehensive review. Comput Biol Med 2024; 177:108661. [PMID: 38810477 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
With the use of specific genetic factors and recent developments in cellular reprogramming, it is now possible to generate lineage-committed cells or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from readily available and common somatic cell types. However, there are still significant doubts regarding the safety and effectiveness of the current genetic methods for reprogramming cells, as well as the conventional culture methods for maintaining stem cells. Small molecules that target specific epigenetic processes, signaling pathways, and other cellular processes can be used as a complementary approach to manipulate cell fate to achieve a desired objective. It has been discovered that a growing number of small molecules can support lineage differentiation, maintain stem cell self-renewal potential, and facilitate reprogramming by either increasing the efficiency of reprogramming or acting as a genetic reprogramming factor substitute. However, ongoing challenges include improving reprogramming efficiency, ensuring the safety of small molecules, and addressing issues with incomplete epigenetic resetting. Small molecule iPSCs have significant clinical applications in regenerative medicine and personalized therapies. This review emphasizes the versatility and potential safety benefits of small molecules in overcoming challenges associated with the iPSCs reprogramming process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdur Rehman
- Center of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Israr Fatima
- Center of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Fatima Noor
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan; Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University of Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Qasim
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University of Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Peng Wang
- Center of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China
| | - Jinrui Jia
- Laboratory of Animal Fat Deposition and Muscle Development, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Fahad M Alshabrmi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mingzhi Liao
- Center of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, PR China.
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Shen Z, Wu Y, Manna A, Yi C, Cairns BR, Evason KJ, Chandrasekharan MB, Tantin D. Oct4 redox sensitivity potentiates reprogramming and differentiation. Genes Dev 2024; 38:308-321. [PMID: 38719541 PMCID: PMC11146590 DOI: 10.1101/gad.351411.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The transcription factor Oct4/Pou5f1 is a component of the regulatory circuitry governing pluripotency and is widely used to induce pluripotency from somatic cells. Here we used domain swapping and mutagenesis to study Oct4's reprogramming ability, identifying a redox-sensitive DNA binding domain, cysteine residue (Cys48), as a key determinant of reprogramming and differentiation. Oct4 Cys48 sensitizes the protein to oxidative inhibition of DNA binding activity and promotes oxidation-mediated protein ubiquitylation. Pou5f1 C48S point mutation has little effect on undifferentiated embryonic stem cells (ESCs) but upon retinoic acid (RA) treatment causes retention of Oct4 expression, deregulated gene expression, and aberrant differentiation. Pou5f1 C48S ESCs also form less differentiated teratomas and contribute poorly to adult somatic tissues. Finally, we describe Pou5f1 C48S (Janky) mice, which in the homozygous condition are severely developmentally restricted after E4.5. Rare animals bypassing this restriction appear normal at birth but are sterile. Collectively, these findings uncover a novel Oct4 redox mechanism involved in both entry into and exit from pluripotency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuolian Shen
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Yifan Wu
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Asit Manna
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Chongil Yi
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Bradley R Cairns
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Kimberley J Evason
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Mahesh B Chandrasekharan
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Dean Tantin
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA;
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
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Umeyama T, Matsuda T, Nakashima K. Lineage Reprogramming: Genetic, Chemical, and Physical Cues for Cell Fate Conversion with a Focus on Neuronal Direct Reprogramming and Pluripotency Reprogramming. Cells 2024; 13:707. [PMID: 38667322 PMCID: PMC11049106 DOI: 10.3390/cells13080707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Although lineage reprogramming from one cell type to another is becoming a breakthrough technology for cell-based therapy, several limitations remain to be overcome, including the low conversion efficiency and subtype specificity. To address these, many studies have been conducted using genetics, chemistry, physics, and cell biology to control transcriptional networks, signaling cascades, and epigenetic modifications during reprogramming. Here, we summarize recent advances in cellular reprogramming and discuss future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taichi Umeyama
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Taito Matsuda
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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Shen Z, Wu Y, Mana A, Yi C, Cairns B, Evason KJ, Chandrasekharan MB, Tantin D. Oct4 redox sensitivity potentiates reprogramming and differentiation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.02.21.529404. [PMID: 36865286 PMCID: PMC9980064 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.21.529404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor Oct4/Pou5f1 is a component of the regulatory circuitry governing pluripotency and is widely used to induce pluripotency from somatic cells. Here we use domain swapping and mutagenesis to study Oct4s reprogramming ability, identifying a redox-sensitive DNA binding domain cysteine residue (Cys48) as a key determinant of reprogramming and differentiation. Oct4 Cys48 sensitizes the protein to oxidative inhibition of DNA binding activity and promotes oxidation-mediated protein ubiquitylation. Pou5f1C48S point mutation has little effect on undifferentiated embryonic stem cells (ESCs), but upon retinoic acid (RA) treatment causes retention of Oct4 expression, deregulated gene expression and aberrant differentiation. Pou5f1C48S ESCs also form less differentiated teratomas and contribute poorly to adult somatic tissues. Finally, we describe Pou5f1C48S (Janky) mice, which in the homozygous condition are severely developmentally restricted after E4.5. Rare animals bypassing this restriction appear normal at birth but are sterile. Collectively, these findings uncover a novel Oct4 redox mechanism involved in both entry into and exit from pluripotency.
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5
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Fatima N, Saif Ur Rahman M, Qasim M, Ali Ashfaq U, Ahmed U, Masoud MS. Transcriptional Factors Mediated Reprogramming to Pluripotency. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:367-388. [PMID: 37073151 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230417084518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
A unique kind of pluripotent cell, i.e., Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), now being targeted for iPSC synthesis, are produced by reprogramming animal and human differentiated cells (with no change in genetic makeup for the sake of high efficacy iPSCs formation). The conversion of specific cells to iPSCs has revolutionized stem cell research by making pluripotent cells more controllable for regenerative therapy. For the past 15 years, somatic cell reprogramming to pluripotency with force expression of specified factors has been a fascinating field of biomedical study. For that technological primary viewpoint reprogramming method, a cocktail of four transcription factors (TF) has required: Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), four-octamer binding protein 34 (OCT3/4), MYC and SOX2 (together referred to as OSKM) and host cells. IPS cells have great potential for future tissue replacement treatments because of their ability to self-renew and specialize in all adult cell types, although factor-mediated reprogramming mechanisms are still poorly understood medically. This technique has dramatically improved performance and efficiency, making it more useful in drug discovery, disease remodeling, and regenerative medicine. Moreover, in these four TF cocktails, more than 30 reprogramming combinations were proposed, but for reprogramming effectiveness, only a few numbers have been demonstrated for the somatic cells of humans and mice. Stoichiometry, a combination of reprogramming agents and chromatin remodeling compounds, impacts kinetics, quality, and efficiency in stem cell research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazira Fatima
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Muhammad Saif Ur Rahman
- Institute of Advanced Studies, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Devices and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Province, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Muhammad Qasim
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Usman Ali Ashfaq
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Uzair Ahmed
- EMBL Partnership Institute for Genome Editing Technologies, Vilnius University, Vilnius, 10257, Lithuania
| | - Muhammad Shareef Masoud
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
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Lee SW, Frankston CM, Kim J. Epigenome editing in cancer: Advances and challenges for potential therapeutic options. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 383:191-230. [PMID: 38359969 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Cancers are diseases caused by genetic and non-genetic environmental factors. Epigenetic alterations, some attributed to non-genetic factors, can lead to cancer development. Epigenetic changes can occur in tumor suppressors or oncogenes, or they may contribute to global cell state changes, making cells abnormal. Recent advances in gene editing technology show potential for cancer treatment. Herein, we will discuss our current knowledge of epigenetic alterations occurring in cancer and epigenetic editing technologies that can be applied to developing therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Won Lee
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States; Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Connor Mitchell Frankston
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States; Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jungsun Kim
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States; Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States; Cancer Biology Research Program, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States.
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Bort A, G. Sánchez B, León C, Nozal L, Mora-Rodríguez JM, Castro F, Crego AL, Díaz-Laviada I. Metabolic fingerprinting of chemotherapy-resistant prostate cancer stem cells. An untargeted metabolomic approach by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1005675. [PMID: 36325358 PMCID: PMC9618794 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1005675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance is one of the most important challenges in cancer therapy. The presence of cancer stem cells within the tumor may contribute to chemotherapy resistance since these cells express high levels of extrusion pumps and xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes that inactivate the therapeutic drug. Despite the recent advances in cancer cell metabolism adaptations, little is known about the metabolic adaptations of the cancer stem cells resistant to chemotherapy. In this study, we have undertaken an untargeted metabolomic analysis by liquid chromatography–high-resolution spectrometry combined with cytotoxicity assay, western blot, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and fatty acid oxidation in a prostate cancer cell line resistant to the antiandrogen 2-hydroxiflutamide with features of cancer stem cells, compared to its parental androgen-sensitive cell line. Metabolic fingerprinting revealed 106 out of the 850 metabolites in ESI+ and 67 out of 446 in ESI- with significant differences between the sensitive and the resistant cell lines. Pathway analysis performed with the unequivocally identified metabolites, revealed changes in pathways involved in energy metabolism as well as posttranscriptional regulation. Validation by enzyme expression analysis indicated that the chemotherapy-resistant prostate cancer stem cells were metabolically dormant with decreased fatty acid oxidation, methionine metabolism and ADP-ribosylation. Our results shed light on the pathways underlying the entry of cancer cells into dormancy that might contribute to the mechanisms of drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Bort
- Yale University School of Medicine, Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, New Haven, CT, United states
| | - Belén G. Sánchez
- Alcala University, School of Medicine, Department of Systems Biology and Research Institute in Chemistry “Andrés M. Del Río” (IQAR), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos León
- Carlos III University, Department of Bioengineering and Aerospatial Engineering, Madrid, Spain
| | - Leonor Nozal
- Alcala University and General Foundation of Alcalá University, Center of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Mora-Rodríguez
- Alcala University, School of Medicine, Department of Systems Biology and Research Institute in Chemistry “Andrés M. Del Río” (IQAR), Madrid, Spain
| | - Florentina Castro
- Alcala University and General Foundation of Alcalá University, Center of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio L. Crego
- Alcala University, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Antonio L. Crego, ; Inés Díaz-Laviada,
| | - Inés Díaz-Laviada
- Alcala University, School of Medicine, Department of Systems Biology and Research Institute in Chemistry “Andrés M. Del Río” (IQAR), Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Antonio L. Crego, ; Inés Díaz-Laviada,
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8
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Tabibzadeh S. Resolving Geroplasticity to the Balance of Rejuvenins and Geriatrins. Aging Dis 2022; 13:1664-1714. [DOI: 10.14336/ad.2022.0414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Zhou W, Ma T, Ding S. Non-viral approaches for somatic cell reprogramming into cardiomyocytes. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 122:28-36. [PMID: 34238675 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Heart disease is the leading cause of human deaths worldwide. Due to lacking cardiomyocytes with replicative capacity and cardiac progenitor cells with differentiation potential in adult hearts, massive loss of cardiomyocytes after ischemic events produces permanent damage, ultimately leading to heart failure. Cellular reprogramming is a promising strategy to regenerate heart by induction of cardiomyocytes from other cell types, such as cardiac fibroblasts. In contrast to conventional virus-based cardiac reprogramming, non-viral approaches greatly reduce the potential risk that includes disruption of genome integrity by integration of foreign DNAs, expression of exogenous genes with oncogenic potential, and appearance of partially reprogrammed cells harmful for the physiological functions of tissues/organs, which impedes their in-vivo applications. Here, we review the recent progress in development of non-viral approaches to directly reprogram somatic cells towards cardiomyocytes and their therapeutic application for heart regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Tianhua Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Sheng Ding
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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Biological importance of OCT transcription factors in reprogramming and development. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:1018-1028. [PMID: 34117345 PMCID: PMC8257633 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00637-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ectopic expression of Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc can reprogram somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Attempts to identify genes or chemicals that can functionally replace each of these four reprogramming factors have revealed that exogenous Oct4 is not necessary for reprogramming under certain conditions or in the presence of alternative factors that can regulate endogenous Oct4 expression. For example, polycistronic expression of Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc can elicit reprogramming by activating endogenous Oct4 expression indirectly. Experiments in which the reprogramming competence of all other Oct family members tested and also in different species have led to the decisive conclusion that Oct proteins display different reprogramming competences and species-dependent reprogramming activity despite their profound sequence conservation. We discuss the roles of the structural components of Oct proteins in reprogramming and how donor cell epigenomes endow Oct proteins with different reprogramming competences. Cells can be reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic-like stem cells that can turn into any cell type and have extensive potential medical uses, without adding the transcription factor OCT4. Although other nearly identical OCT family members had been tried, only OCT4 could induce reprogramming and was previously thought to be indispensable. However, it now appears that the reprogramming can be induced by multiple pathways, as detailed in a review by Hans Schöler, Max Planck Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, Münster, and Johnny Kim, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, in Germany. They report that any factors that trigger cells to activate endogeous OCT4 can produce iPSCs without exogeously admistration of OCT4. The mechanisms for producing iPSCs can differ between species. These results illuminate the complex mechanisms of reprogramming.
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Chen G, Guo Y, Li C, Li S, Wan X. Small Molecules that Promote Self-Renewal of Stem Cells and Somatic Cell Reprogramming. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 16:511-523. [PMID: 32185667 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-09965-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The ground state of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is closely related to the development of regenerative medicine. Particularly, long-term culture of ESCs in vitro, maintenance of their undifferentiated state, self-renewal and multi-directional differentiation ability is the premise of ESCs mechanism and application research. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) reprogrammed from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) cells into cells with most of the ESC characteristics show promise towards solving ethical problems currently facing stem cell research. However, integration into chromosomal DNA through viral-mediated genes may activate proto oncogenes and lead to risk of cancer of iPSC. At the same time, iPS induction efficiency needs to be further improved to reduce the use of transcription factors. In this review, we discuss small molecules that promote self-renewal and reprogramming, including growth factor receptor inhibitors, GSK-3β and histone deacetylase inhibitors, metabolic regulators, pathway modulators as well as EMT/MET regulation inhibitors to enhance maintenance of ESCs and enable reprogramming. Additionally, we summarize the mechanism of action of small molecules on ESC self-renewal and iPSC reprogramming. Finally, we will report on the progress in identification of novel and potentially effective agents as well as selected strategies that show promise in regenerative medicine. On this basis, development of more small molecule combinations and efficient induction of chemically induced pluripotent stem cell (CiPSC) is vital for stem cell therapy. This will significantly improve research in pathogenesis, individualized drug screening, stem cell transplantation, tissue engineering and many other aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guofang Chen
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu'e Guo
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangdi Li
- Departments of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoping Wan
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Generation of biologically active recombinant human OCT4 protein from E. coli. 3 Biotech 2021; 11:207. [PMID: 33927995 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-021-02758-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) is vital for early embryonic development and is a master regulator of pluripotency in embryonic stem cells. Notably, OCT4 is a key reprogramming factor to derive induced pluripotent stem cells, which have tremendous prospects in regenerative medicine. In the current study, we report heterologous expression and purification of human OCT4 in E. coli to produce pure recombinant protein under native conditions. To achieve this, the 1083 bp coding sequence of the human OCT4 gene was codon-optimized for heterologous expression in E. coli. The codon-optimized sequence was fused with fusion tags, namely a cell-penetrating peptide sequence for intracellular delivery, a nuclear localization sequence for intranuclear delivery, and a His-tag for affinity purification. Subsequently, the codon-optimized sequence and the fusion tags were cloned in the protein expression vector, pET28a(+), and transformed into E. coli strain BL21(DE3) for expression. The recombinant OCT4 protein was purified from the soluble fraction under native conditions using immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography in a facile manner, and its identity was confirmed by Western blotting and mass spectrometry. Furthermore, the secondary structure of the recombinant protein was analyzed using far ultraviolet circular dichroism spectroscopy, which confirmed that the purified fusion protein maintained a secondary structure conformation, and it predominantly composed of α-helices. Next, the recombinant OCT4 protein was applied to human cells, and was found that it was able to enter the cells and translocate to the nucleus. Furthermore, the biological activity of the transduced OCT4 protein was also demonstrated on human cells. This recombinant tool can substitute for genetic and viral forms of OCT4 to enable the derivation of integration-free pluripotent cells. It can also be used to elucidate its biological role in various cellular processes and diseases and for structural and biochemical studies. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-021-02758-z.
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Wang W, Ren S, Lu Y, Chen X, Qu J, Ma X, Deng Q, Hu Z, Jin Y, Zhou Z, Ge W, Zhu Y, Yang N, Li Q, Pu J, Chen G, Ye C, Wang H, Zhao X, Liu Z, Zhu S. Inhibition of Syk promotes chemical reprogramming of fibroblasts via metabolic rewiring and H 2 S production. EMBO J 2021; 40:e106771. [PMID: 33909912 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020106771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical compounds have recently been introduced as alternative and non-integrating inducers of pluripotent stem cell fate. However, chemical reprogramming is hampered by low efficiency and the molecular mechanisms remain poorly characterized. Here, we show that inhibition of spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) by R406 significantly promotes mouse chemical reprogramming. Mechanistically, R406 alleviates Syk / calcineurin (Cn) / nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) signaling-mediated suppression of glycine, serine, and threonine metabolic genes and dependent metabolites. Syk inhibition upregulates glycine level and downstream transsulfuration cysteine biosynthesis, promoting cysteine metabolism and cellular hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) production. This metabolic rewiring decreased oxidative phosphorylation and ROS levels, enhancing chemical reprogramming. In sum, our study identifies Syk-Cn-NFAT signaling axis as a new barrier of chemical reprogramming and suggests metabolic rewiring and redox homeostasis as important opportunities for controlling cell fates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyun Wang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shaofang Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunkun Lu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xi Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Juanjuan Qu
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaojie Ma
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qian Deng
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhensheng Hu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Jin
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziyu Zhou
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenyan Ge
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yibing Zhu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nannan Yang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Hangzhou Women's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qin Li
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Pu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guo Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cunqi Ye
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Hangzhou Women's Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- College of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Saiyong Zhu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Vandana JJ, Lacko LA, Chen S. Phenotypic technologies in stem cell biology. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 28:257-270. [PMID: 33651977 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The high-throughput phenotypic screen (HTPS) has become an emerging technology to discover synthetic small molecules that regulate stem cell fates. Here, we review the application of HTPS to identify small molecules controlling stem cell renewal, reprogramming, differentiation, and lineage conversion. Moreover, we discuss the use of HTPS to discover small molecules/polymers mimicking the stem cell extracellular niche. Furthermore, HTPSs have been applied on whole-animal models to identify small molecules regulating stem cell renewal or differentiation in vivo. Finally, we discuss the examples of the utilization of HTPS in stem cell-based disease modeling, as well as in the discovery of novel drug candidates for cancer, diabetes, and infectious diseases. Overall, HTPSs have provided many powerful tools for the stem cell field, which not only facilitate the generation of functional cells/tissues for replacement therapy, disease modeling, and drug screening, but also help dissect molecular mechanisms regulating physiological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jeya Vandana
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, Weill Cornell Medicine, The Rockefeller University, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauretta A Lacko
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Shuibing Chen
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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15
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Yuan ZD, Zhu WN, Liu KZ, Huang ZP, Han YC. Small Molecule Epigenetic Modulators in Pure Chemical Cell Fate Conversion. Stem Cells Int 2020; 2020:8890917. [PMID: 33144865 PMCID: PMC7596432 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8890917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Although innovative technologies for somatic cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation provide new strategies for the research of translational medicine, including disease modeling, drug screening, artificial organ development, and cell therapy, recipient safety remains a concern due to the use of exogenous transcription factors during induction. To resolve this problem, new induction approaches containing clinically applicable small molecules have been explored. Small molecule epigenetic modulators such as DNA methylation writer inhibitors, histone methylation writer inhibitors, histone acylation reader inhibitors, and histone acetylation eraser inhibitors could overcome epigenetic barriers during cell fate conversion. In the past few years, significant progress has been made in reprogramming and transdifferentiation of somatic cells with small molecule approaches. In the present review, we systematically discuss recent achievements of pure chemical reprogramming and transdifferentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Di Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Grade 19, Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Ning Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Grade 19, Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke-Zhi Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Grade 19, Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhan-Peng Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Assisted Circulation (Sun Yat-sen University), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Chuang Han
- Department of Cardiology, Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Assisted Circulation (Sun Yat-sen University), Guangzhou, China
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16
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Abstract
Derivation of induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) by reprogramming somatic cells to a pluripotent state has revolutionized stem cell research. Ensuing this, various groups have used genetic and non-genetic approaches to generate iPSCs from numerous cell types. However, achieving a pluripotent state in most of the reprogramming studies is marred by serious limitations such as low reprogramming efficiency and slow kinetics. These limitations are mainly due to the presence of potent barriers that exist during reprogramming when a mature cell is coaxed to achieve a pluripotent state. Several studies have revealed that intrinsic factors such as non-optimal stoichiometry of reprogramming factors, specific signaling pathways, cellular senescence, pluripotency-inhibiting transcription factors and microRNAs act as a roadblock. In addition, the epigenetic state of somatic cells and specific epigenetic modifications that occur during reprogramming also remarkably impede the generation of iPSCs. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the barriers that inhibit reprogramming and the understanding of which will pave the way to develop safe strategies for efficient reprogramming.
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17
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Borgohain MP, Haridhasapavalan KK, Dey C, Adhikari P, Thummer RP. An Insight into DNA-free Reprogramming Approaches to Generate Integration-free Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Prospective Biomedical Applications. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2020; 15:286-313. [PMID: 30417242 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-018-9861-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
More than a decade ago, a pioneering study reported generation of induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) by ectopic expression of a cocktail of reprogramming factors in fibroblasts. This study has revolutionized stem cell research and has garnered immense interest from the scientific community globally. iPSCs hold tremendous potential for understanding human developmental biology, disease modeling, drug screening and discovery, and personalized cell-based therapeutic applications. The seminal study identified Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc as a potent combination of genes to induce reprogramming. Subsequently, various reprogramming factors were identified by numerous groups. Most of these studies have used integrating viral vectors to overexpress reprogramming factors in somatic cells to derive iPSCs. However, these techniques restrict the clinical applicability of these cells as they may alter the genome due to random viral integration resulting in insertional mutagenesis and tumorigenicity. To circumvent this issue, alternative integration-free reprogramming approaches are continuously developed that eliminate the risk of genomic modifications and improve the prospects of iPSCs from lab to clinic. These methods establish that integration of transgenes into the genome is not essential to induce pluripotency in somatic cells. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the most promising DNA-free reprogramming techniques that have the potential to derive integration-free iPSCs without genomic manipulation, such as sendai virus, recombinant proteins, microRNAs, synthetic messenger RNA and small molecules. The understanding of these approaches shall pave a way for the generation of clinical-grade iPSCs. Subsequently, these iPSCs can be differentiated into desired cell type(s) for various biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manash P Borgohain
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Krishna Kumar Haridhasapavalan
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Chandrima Dey
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Poulomi Adhikari
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Rajkumar P Thummer
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India.
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18
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Zeng J, Li Y, Ma Z, Hu M. Advances in Small Molecules in Cellular Reprogramming: Effects, Structures, and Mechanisms. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 16:115-132. [PMID: 32564763 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x15666200621172042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The method of cellular reprogramming using small molecules involves the manipulation of somatic cells to generate desired cell types under chemically limited conditions, thus avoiding the ethical controversy of embryonic stem cells and the potential hazards of gene manipulation. The combinations of small molecules and their effects on mouse and human somatic cells are similar. Several small molecules, including CHIR99021, 616452, A83-01, SB431542, forskolin, tranylcypromine and valproic acid [VPA], have been frequently used in reprogramming of mouse and human somatic cells. This indicated that the reprogramming approaches related to these compounds were essential. These approaches were mainly divided into four classes: epigenetic modification, signal modulation, metabolic modulation and senescent suppression. The structures and functions of small molecules involved in these reprogramming approaches have been studied extensively. Molecular docking gave insights into the mechanisms and structural specificities of various small molecules in the epigenetic modification. The binding modes of RG108, Bix01294, tranylcypromine and VPA with their corresponding proteins clearly illustrated the interactions between these compounds and the active sites of the proteins. Glycogen synthase kinase 3β [CHIR99021], transforming growth factor β [616452, A83-01 and SB431542] and protein kinase A [forskolin] signaling pathway play important roles in signal modulation during reprogramming, however, the mechanisms and structural specificities of these inhibitors are still unknown. Further, the numbers of small molecules in the approaches of metabolic modulation and senescent suppression were too few to compare. This review aims to serve as a reference for reprogramming through small molecules in order to benefit future regenerative medicine and clinical drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zeng
- Yunnan Key laboratory for Basic Research on Bone and Joint Diseases & Yunnan Stem Cell Translational Research Center, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China
| | - Yanjiao Li
- Yunnan Key laboratory for Basic Research on Bone and Joint Diseases & Yunnan Stem Cell Translational Research Center, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China
| | - Zhaoxia Ma
- Yunnan Key laboratory for Basic Research on Bone and Joint Diseases & Yunnan Stem Cell Translational Research Center, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China
| | - Min Hu
- Yunnan Key laboratory for Basic Research on Bone and Joint Diseases & Yunnan Stem Cell Translational Research Center, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China
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19
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Al Abbar A, Ngai SC, Nograles N, Alhaji SY, Abdullah S. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Reprogramming Platforms and Applications in Cell Replacement Therapy. Biores Open Access 2020; 9:121-136. [PMID: 32368414 PMCID: PMC7194323 DOI: 10.1089/biores.2019.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from differentiated mature cells is one of the most promising technologies in the field of regenerative medicine. The ability to generate patient-specific iPSCs offers an invaluable reservoir of pluripotent cells, which could be genetically engineered and differentiated into target cells to treat various genetic and degenerative diseases once transplanted, hence counteracting the risk of graft versus host disease. In this context, we review the scientific research streams that lead to the emergence of iPSCs, the roles of reprogramming factors in reprogramming to pluripotency, and the reprogramming strategies. As iPSCs serve tremendous correction potentials for various diseases, we highlight the successes and challenges of iPSCs in cell replacement therapy and the synergy of iPSCs and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 gene editing tools in therapeutics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akram Al Abbar
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Siew Ching Ngai
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Semenyih, Malaysia
| | - Nadine Nograles
- Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Educity, Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Suleiman Yusuf Alhaji
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Syahril Abdullah
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
- UPM-MAKNA Cancer Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
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20
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Headley KM, Kedziora KM, Alejo A, Lai EZX, Purvis JE, Hathaway NA. Chemical screen for epigenetic barriers to single allele activation of Oct4. Stem Cell Res 2019; 38:101470. [PMID: 31170660 PMCID: PMC6886240 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2019.101470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Here we utilized the chromatin in vivo assay (CiA) mouse platform to directly examine the epigenetic barriers impeding the activation of the CiA:Oct4 allele in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF)s when stimulated with a transcription factor. The CiA:Oct4 allele contains an engineered EGFP reporter replacing one copy of the Oct4 gene, with an upstream Gal4 array in the promoter that allows recruitment of chromatin modifying machinery. We stimulated gene activation of the CiA:Oct4 allele by binding a transcriptional activator to the Gal4 array. As with cellular reprograming, this process is inefficient with only a small percentage of the cells re-activating CiA:Oct4 after weeks. Epigenetic barriers to gene activation potentially come from heavy DNA methylation, histone deacetylation, chromatin compaction, and other posttranslational marks (PTM) at the differentiated CiA:Oct4 allele in MEFs. Using this platform, we performed a high-throughput chemical screen for compounds that increased the efficiency of activation. We found that Azacytidine and newer generation histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors were the most efficient at facilitating directed transcriptional activation of this allele. We found one hit form our screen, Mocetinostat, improved iPSC generation under transcription factor reprogramming conditions. These results separate individual allele activation from whole cell reprograming and give new insights that will advance tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Headley
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America; Curriculum for Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Katarzyna M Kedziora
- Department of Genetics, Curriculum for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Aidin Alejo
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Elianna Zhi-Xiang Lai
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Jeremy E Purvis
- Curriculum for Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America; Department of Genetics, Curriculum for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, 120 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Nathaniel A Hathaway
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America; Curriculum for Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, 120 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America.
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21
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Zhou J, Sun J. A Revolution in Reprogramming: Small Molecules. Curr Mol Med 2019; 19:77-90. [DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666190325113945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Transplantation of reprogrammed cells from accessible sources and in vivo
reprogramming are potential therapies for regenerative medicine. During the last
decade, genetic approaches, which mostly involved transcription factors and
microRNAs, have been shown to affect cell fates. However, their potential
carcinogenicity and other unexpected effects limit their translation into clinical
applications. Recently, with the power of modern biology-oriented design and synthetic
chemistry, as well as high-throughput screening technology, small molecules have been
shown to enhance reprogramming efficiency, replace genetic factors, and help elucidate
the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular plasticity and degenerative diseases. As a
non-viral and non-integrating approach, small molecules not only show revolutionary
capacities in generating desired exogenous cell types but also have potential as drugs
that can restore tissues through repairing or reprogramming endogenous cells. Here, we
focus on the recent progress made to use small molecules in cell reprogramming along
with some related mechanisms to elucidate these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhou
- Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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22
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Abu-Dawud R, Graffmann N, Ferber S, Wruck W, Adjaye J. Pluripotent stem cells: induction and self-renewal. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2019; 373:rstb.2017.0213. [PMID: 29786549 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2017.0213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) lie at the heart of modern regenerative medicine due to their properties of unlimited self-renewal in vitro and their ability to differentiate into cell types representative of the three embryonic germ layers-mesoderm, ectoderm and endoderm. The derivation of induced PSCs bypasses ethical concerns associated with the use of human embryonic stem cells and also enables personalized cell-based therapies. To exploit their regenerative potential, it is essential to have a firm understanding of the molecular processes associated with their induction from somatic cells. This understanding serves two purposes: first, to enable efficient, reliable and cost-effective production of excellent quality induced PSCs and, second, to enable the derivation of safe, good manufacturing practice-grade transplantable donor cells. Here, we review the reprogramming process of somatic cells into induced PSCs and associated mechanisms with emphasis on self-renewal, epigenetic control, mitochondrial bioenergetics, sub-states of pluripotency, naive ground state, naive and primed. A meta-analysis identified genes expressed exclusively in the inner cell mass and in the naive but not in the primed pluripotent state. We propose these as additional biomarkers defining naive PSCs.This article is part of the theme issue 'Designer human tissue: coming to a lab near you'.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Abu-Dawud
- Comparative Medicine Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Zahrawi Street, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - N Graffmann
- Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - S Ferber
- Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - W Wruck
- Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - J Adjaye
- Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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23
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Direct phenotypic conversion of human fibroblasts into functional osteoblasts triggered by a blockade of the transforming growth factor-β signal. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8463. [PMID: 29855543 PMCID: PMC5981640 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26745-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A procedure to generate functional osteoblasts from human somatic cells may pave the way to a novel and effective transplantation therapy in bone disorders. Here, we report that human fibroblasts were induced to show osteoblast phenotypes by culturing with ALK5 i II, which is a specific inhibitor for activin-like kinase 5 (ALK5) (tumor growth factor-β receptor 1 (TGF-β R1)). Cells cultured with ALK5 i II expressed osteoblast-specific genes and massively produced calcified bone matrix, similar to the osteoblasts induced from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-OBs). Treatment with vitamin D3 in addition to ALK5 i II induced more osteoblast-like characters, and the efficiency of the conversion reached approximately 90%. The chemical compound-mediated directly converted osteoblasts (cOBs) were similar to human primary osteoblasts in terms of expression profiles of osteoblast-related genes. The cOBs abundantly produced bone matrix in vivo and facilitated bone healing after they were transplanted into immunodeficient mice at an artificially induced defect lesion in femoral bone. The present procedure realizes a highly efficient direct conversion of human fibroblasts into transgene-free and highly functional osteoblasts, which might be applied in a novel strategy of bone regeneration therapy in bone diseases.
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24
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Baranek M, Belter A, Naskręt-Barciszewska MZ, Stobiecki M, Markiewicz WT, Barciszewski J. Effect of small molecules on cell reprogramming. MOLECULAR BIOSYSTEMS 2017; 13:277-313. [PMID: 27918060 DOI: 10.1039/c6mb00595k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The essential idea of regenerative medicine is to fix or replace tissues or organs with alive and patient-specific implants. Pluripotent stem cells are able to indefinitely self-renew and differentiate into all cell types of the body which makes them a potent substantial player in regenerative medicine. The easily accessible source of induced pluripotent stem cells may allow obtaining and cultivating tissues in vitro. Reprogramming refers to regression of mature cells to its initial pluripotent state. One of the approaches affecting pluripotency is the usage of low molecular mass compounds that can modulate enzymes and receptors leading to the formation of pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). It would be great to assess the general character of such compounds and reveal their new derivatives or modifications to increase the cell reprogramming efficiency. Many improvements in the methods of pluripotency induction have been made by various groups in order to limit the immunogenicity and tumorigenesis, increase the efficiency and accelerate the kinetics. Understanding the epigenetic changes during the cellular reprogramming process will extend the comprehension of stem cell biology and lead to potential therapeutic approaches. There are compounds which have been already proven to be or for now only putative inducers of the pluripotent state that may substitute for the classic reprogramming factors (Oct3/4, Sox2, Klf4, c-Myc) in order to improve the time and efficiency of pluripotency induction. The effect of small molecules on gene expression is dosage-dependent and their application concentration needs to be strictly determined. In this review we analysed the role of small molecules in modulations leading to pluripotency induction, thereby contributing to our understanding of stem cell biology and uncovering the major mechanisms involved in that process.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Baranek
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego str. 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland.
| | - A Belter
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego str. 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland.
| | - M Z Naskręt-Barciszewska
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego str. 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland.
| | - M Stobiecki
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego str. 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland.
| | - W T Markiewicz
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego str. 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland.
| | - J Barciszewski
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego str. 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland.
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25
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Xie M, Tang S, Li K, Ding S. Pharmacological Reprogramming of Somatic Cells for Regenerative Medicine. Acc Chem Res 2017; 50:1202-1211. [PMID: 28453285 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.7b00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Lost or damaged cells in tissues and organs can be replaced by transplanting therapeutically competent cells. This approach requires methods that effectively manipulate cellular identities and properties to generate sufficient numbers of desired cell types for transplantation. These cells can be generated by reprogramming readily available somatic cells, such as fibroblasts, into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which can replicate indefinitely and give rise to any somatic cell type. This reprogramming can be achieved with genetic methods, such as forced expression of pluripotency-inducing transcription factors (TFs), which can be further improved, or even avoided, with pharmacological agents. We screened chemical libraries for such agents and identified small molecules that enhance TF-mediated pluripotency induction in somatic cells. We also developed cocktails of small molecules that can functionally replace combinations of TFs required to induce pluripotency in mouse and human somatic cells. Importantly, we devised and established a general strategy to develop effective pharmacological cocktails for specific cellular reprogramming processes. In the search for useful small molecules, we also discovered and characterized previously unknown mechanisms pertinent to cellular reprogramming. A more direct method to access scarce cells for cell transplantation is transdifferentiation, which uses combinations of cell-type specific TFs to reprogram fibroblasts into the target somatic cell types across lineage boundaries. We created an alternative strategy for cellular transdifferentiation that epigenetically activates somatic cells by pairing temporal treatment with reprogramming molecules and tissue-specific signaling molecules to generate cells of multiple lineages. Using this cell-activation and signaling-directed (CASD) transdifferentiation paradigm, we converted fibroblasts into a variety of somatic cells found in major organs, such as the heart, brain, pancreas, and liver. Specifically, we induced, isolated, and expanded (long-term) lineage-specific progenitor cells that can give rise to a defined range of cell types relevant to specific tissues or organs. Transplanting these progenitor cells or their progeny was therapeutically beneficial in animal models of diseases and organ damage. Importantly, we developed chemically defined conditions, without any genetic factors, that convert fibroblasts into cells of the cardiac and neural lineages, further extending the realm of pharmacological reprogramming of cells. Continuously advancing technologies in pharmacological reprogramming of cells may benefit and advance regenerative medicine. The established pharmacological tools have already been applied to enhance the processes of cellular reprogramming and improve the quality of cells for their clinical applications. The rapidly increasing number of readily available bioactive chemical tools will fuel our efforts to reprogram cells for transplantation therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Xie
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Shibing Tang
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Ke Li
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Sheng Ding
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
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26
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Abstract
Reprogramming cell fates towards pluripotent stem cells and other cell types has revolutionized our understanding of cellular plasticity. During the last decade, transcription factors and microRNAs have become powerful reprogramming factors for modulating cell fates. Recently, many efforts are focused on reprogramming cell fates by non-viral and non-integrating chemical approaches. Small molecules not only are useful in generating desired cell types in vitro for various applications, such as disease modeling and cell-based transplantation, but also hold great promise to be further developed as drugs to stimulate patients’ endogenous cells to repair and regenerate in vivo. Here we will focus on chemical approaches for generating induced pluripotent stem cells, neurons, cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes and pancreatic β cells. Significantly, the rapid and exciting advances in cellular reprogramming by small molecules will help us to achieve the long-term goal of curing devastating diseases, injuries, cancers and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Ma
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Linghao Kong
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Saiyong Zhu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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27
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Current perspectives in Set7 mediated stem cell differentiation. Noncoding RNA 2016; 2:ncrna2040014. [PMID: 29657272 PMCID: PMC5831927 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna2040014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Set7 is a key regulatory enzyme involved in the methylation of lysine residues of histone and non-histone proteins. This lysine methyltransferase is induced during stem cell differentiation and regulates lineage specific gene transcription and cell fate. In this article we discuss recent experimental evidence identifying regulatory targets under the control of Set7 as well as emerging evidence of regulation in stem cell differentiation. Furthermore, we discuss the function of non-coding RNAs regulated by Set7 implicated in cell plasticity.
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28
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Yang H, Zhang L, An J, Zhang Q, Liu C, He B, Hao DJ. MicroRNA-Mediated Reprogramming of Somatic Cells into Neural Stem Cells or Neurons. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:1587-1600. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0115-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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29
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Balcerczyk A, Rybaczek D, Wojtala M, Pirola L, Okabe J, El-Osta A. Pharmacological inhibition of arginine and lysine methyltransferases induces nuclear abnormalities and suppresses angiogenesis in human endothelial cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2016; 121:18-32. [PMID: 27659811 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications of histone tails can alter chromatin structure and regulate gene transcription. While recent studies implicate the lysine/arginine protein methyltransferases in the regulation of genes for endothelial metabolism, the role of AMI-1 and AMI-5 compounds in angiogenesis remains unknown. Here, we show that global inhibition of arginine and lysine histone methyltransferases (HMTs) by AMI-5 induced an angiostatic profile in human microvascular endothelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Based on FACS analysis, we found that inhibition of HMTs significantly affects proliferation of endothelial cells, by suppressing cell cycle progression in the G0/G1 phase. Immunofluorescent studies of the endothelial cells replication pattern by 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation disclosed that AMI-5, and the arginine methyltransferase inhibitor AMI-1, induced heterochromatin formation and a number of nuclear abnormalities, such as formation of micronuclei (MNs) and nucleoplasmic bridges (NPBs), which are markers of chromosomal instability. In addition to the modification of the cell cycle machinery in response to AMIs treatment, also endothelial cells migration and capillary-like tube formation processes were significantly inhibited, implicating a stimulatory role of HMTs in angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martyna Wojtala
- Department of Molecular Biophysics, University of Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Jun Okabe
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart & Diabetes Institute, The Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia; Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Assam El-Osta
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart & Diabetes Institute, The Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia; Epigenomics Profiling Facility, Baker IDI Heart & Diabetes Institute, The Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia; Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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30
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Sekita Y, Nakamura T, Kimura T. Reprogramming of germ cells into pluripotency. World J Stem Cells 2016; 8:251-259. [PMID: 27621759 PMCID: PMC4999652 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v8.i8.251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are precursors of all gametes, and represent the founder cells of the germline. Although developmental potency is restricted to germ-lineage cells, PGCs can be reprogrammed into a pluripotent state. Specifically, PGCs give rise to germ cell tumors, such as testicular teratomas, in vivo, and to pluripotent stem cells known as embryonic germ cells in vitro. In this review, we highlight the current knowledge on signaling pathways, transcriptional controls, and post-transcriptional controls that govern germ cell differentiation and de-differentiation. These regulatory processes are common in the reprogramming of germ cells and somatic cells, and play a role in the pathogenesis of human germ cell tumors.
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31
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Liu K, Yu C, Xie M, Li K, Ding S. Chemical Modulation of Cell Fate in Stem Cell Therapeutics and Regenerative Medicine. Cell Chem Biol 2016; 23:893-916. [PMID: 27524294 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine aims to repair and regenerate injured tissues and restore their impaired functions. Recent developments in stem cell biology have attracted significant interest in their applications in regenerative medicine. Chemical approaches using small molecules have yielded exciting results in induction and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, lineage conversion of somatic cells, and ex vivo as well as in vivo modulation of adult stem cells. In this review, we discuss recent progress, new insights, and future challenges of the chemical approaches in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liu
- Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Chen Yu
- Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Min Xie
- Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Ke Li
- Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Sheng Ding
- Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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32
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Derivation and application of pluripotent stem cells for regenerative medicine. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2016; 59:576-83. [DOI: 10.1007/s11427-016-5066-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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33
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Chemically Induced Reprogramming of Somatic Cells to Pluripotent Stem Cells and Neural Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:226. [PMID: 26861316 PMCID: PMC4783958 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17020226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to generate transplantable neural cells in a large quantity in the laboratory is a critical step in the field of developing stem cell regenerative medicine for neural repair. During the last few years, groundbreaking studies have shown that cell fate of adult somatic cells can be reprogrammed through lineage specific expression of transcription factors (TFs)-and defined culture conditions. This key concept has been used to identify a number of potent small molecules that could enhance the efficiency of reprogramming with TFs. Recently, a growing number of studies have shown that small molecules targeting specific epigenetic and signaling pathways can replace all of the reprogramming TFs. Here, we provide a detailed review of the studies reporting the generation of chemically induced pluripotent stem cells (ciPSCs), neural stem cells (ciNSCs), and neurons (ciN). We also discuss the main mechanisms of actions and the pathways that the small molecules regulate during chemical reprogramming.
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34
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RUSU E, NECULA LG, NEAGU AI, ALECU M, STAN C, ALBULESCU R, TANASE CP. Current status of stem cell therapy: opportunities and limitations. Turk J Biol 2016. [DOI: 10.3906/biy-1506-95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
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35
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Pluripotent Stem Cells: Current Understanding and Future Directions. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2016:9451492. [PMID: 26798367 PMCID: PMC4699068 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9451492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells have the ability to undergo self-renewal and to give rise to all cells of the tissues of the body. However, this definition has been recently complicated by the existence of distinct cellular states that display these features. Here, we provide a detailed overview of the family of pluripotent cell lines derived from early mouse and human embryos and compare them with induced pluripotent stem cells. Shared and distinct features of these cells are reported as additional hallmark of pluripotency, offering a comprehensive scenario of pluripotent stem cells.
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36
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Chen J, Gao Y, Huang H, Xu K, Chen X, Jiang Y, Li H, Gao S, Tao Y, Wang H, Zhang Y, Wang H, Cai T, Gao S. The combination of Tet1 with Oct4 generates high-quality mouse-induced pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cells 2015; 33:686-98. [PMID: 25331067 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The DNA dioxygenase Tet1 has recently been proposed to play an important role in the reprogramming of somatic cells to pluripotency. Its oxidization product 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, formerly considered an intermediate in the demethylation of 5-methylcytosine, has recently been implicated as being important in epigenetic reprogramming. Here, we provide evidence that Tet1 (T) can replace multiple transcription factors during somatic cell reprogramming and can generate high-quality mouse induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with Oct4 (O). The OT-iPSCs can efficiently produce viable mice derived entirely from iPSCs through tetraploid complementation; all 47 adult OT-iPSC mice grew healthily, without tumorigenesis, and had a normal life span. Furthermore, a new secondary reprogramming system was established using the OT all-iPSC mice-derived somatic cells. Our results provide the first evidence that the DNA dioxygenase Tet1 can replace multiple pluripotency transcription factors and can generate high-quality iPSCs with Oct4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Chen
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, NIBS, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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37
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Deng XY, Wang H, Wang T, Fang XT, Zou LL, Li ZY, Liu CB. Non-viral methods for generating integration-free, induced pluripotent stem cells. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 10:153-8. [PMID: 25248676 PMCID: PMC4460285 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x09666140923101914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells were created from mouse fibroblasts by induced expression
of Yamanaka factors, Oct3/4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc. This technique has quickly resulted in an exponential
increase in the amount of pluripotency studies, and has provided a valuable tool in regenerative medicine. At
the same time, many methodologies to generate iPS cells have been reported, and are comprised mainly of
viral methods and non-viral methods. Although viral methods may not be applicable for clinical applications, various nonviral
methods have been reported in recent years, including DNA vector-based approaches, transfection of mRNA, transduction
of reprogramming proteins, and use of small molecule compounds. This review summarizes and evaluates these
non-viral methods.
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38
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Anwar MA, Kim S, Choi S. The triumph of chemically enhanced cellular reprogramming: a patent review. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2015; 26:265-80. [PMID: 26593376 DOI: 10.1517/13543776.2016.1118058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The revolutionary discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by Shinya Yamanaka has exposed science to new horizons. However, genetic modifications render reprogrammed cells unstable; for that reason, non-genetic modification approaches are actively under investigation. Among these, the use of small molecules is safe, and these molecules minimally affect the genome. Although iPSCs are ready for clinical trials there are many caveats hindering successful therapy, and small molecules are the best alternative to overcome those caveats. AREAS COVERED Small molecules are playing an active role in generating and improving the quality of iPSCs. In this review, we will highlight the imperative role of small molecules in accelerating the successful translation of basic research into clinical use. Particularly, those ligands that replace the need for reprogramming factors will be discussed. EXPERT OPINION Stem cell research is promising for harvesting medical benefits in near future. The invention of new techniques, mechanisms elucidation, and identification of novel compounds for stem cell creation has certainly established a solid foundation for regenerative medicine. This is the beginning of a new era for the cure of most disabling diseases, and small molecules will have a definite role in successful therapeutic use of iPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ayaz Anwar
- a Department of Molecular Science and Technology , Ajou University , Suwon , South Korea
| | - Songmee Kim
- a Department of Molecular Science and Technology , Ajou University , Suwon , South Korea
| | - Sangdun Choi
- a Department of Molecular Science and Technology , Ajou University , Suwon , South Korea
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39
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Manian KV, Aalam SMM, Bharathan SP, Srivastava A, Velayudhan SR. Understanding the Molecular Basis of Heterogeneity in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Cell Reprogram 2015; 17:427-40. [PMID: 26562626 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2015.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reprogramming of somatic cells to generate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has considerable latency and generates epigenetically distinct partially and fully reprogrammed clones. To understand the molecular basis of reprogramming and to distinguish the partially reprogrammed iPSC clones (pre-iPSCs), we analyzed several of these clones for their molecular signatures. Using a combination of markers that are expressed at different stages of reprogramming, we found that the partially reprogrammed stable clones have significant morphological and molecular heterogeneity in their response to transition to the fully pluripotent state. The pre-iPSCs had significant levels of OCT4 expression but exhibited variable levels of mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition. These novel molecular signatures that we identified would help in using these cells to understand the molecular mechanisms in the late of stages of reprogramming. Although morphologically similar mouse iPSC clones showed significant heterogeneity, the human iPSC clones isolated initially on the basis of morphology were highly homogeneous with respect to the levels of pluripotency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kannan V Manian
- 1 Centre for Stem Cell Research, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India .,2 Department of Haematology, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Sumitha P Bharathan
- 1 Centre for Stem Cell Research, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India .,2 Department of Haematology, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Alok Srivastava
- 1 Centre for Stem Cell Research, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India .,2 Department of Haematology, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shaji R Velayudhan
- 1 Centre for Stem Cell Research, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India .,2 Department of Haematology, Christian Medical College , Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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40
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Kanninen KM, Pomeshchik Y, Leinonen H, Malm T, Koistinaho J, Levonen AL. Applications of the Keap1-Nrf2 system for gene and cell therapy. Free Radic Biol Med 2015; 88:350-361. [PMID: 26164630 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2015.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been implicated to play a role in a number of acute and chronic diseases including acute injuries of the central nervous system, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The redox-activated transcription factor Nrf2 has been shown to protect many different cell types and organs from a variety of toxic insults, whereas in many cancers, unchecked Nrf2 activity increases the expression of cytoprotective genes and, consequently, provides growth advantage to cancerous cells. Herein, we discuss current preclinical gene therapy approaches to either increase or decrease Nrf2 activity with a special reference to neurological diseases and cancer. In addition, we discuss the role of Nrf2 in stem cell therapy for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja M Kanninen
- Department of Neurobiology, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
| | - Yuriy Pomeshchik
- Department of Neurobiology, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
| | - Hanna Leinonen
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
| | - Tarja Malm
- Department of Neurobiology, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
| | - Jari Koistinaho
- Department of Neurobiology, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Finland.
| | - Anna-Liisa Levonen
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Finland.
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41
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Sebban S, Buganim Y. Nuclear Reprogramming by Defined Factors: Quantity Versus Quality. Trends Cell Biol 2015; 26:65-75. [PMID: 26437595 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2015.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Revised: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and directly converted cells holds great promise in regenerative medicine. However, after in-depth studies of the murine system, we know that the current methodologies to produce these cells are not ideal and mostly yield cells of poor quality that might hold a risk in therapeutic applications. In this review we address the duality found in the literature regarding the use of 'quality' as a criterion for the clinic. We discuss the elements that influence reprogramming quality, and provide evidence that safety and functionality are directly linked to cell quality. Finally, because most of the available data come from murine systems, we speculate about what aspects can be applied to human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulamit Sebban
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Yosef Buganim
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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42
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Two Effective Routes for Removing Lineage Restriction Roadblocks: From Somatic Cells to Hepatocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:20873-95. [PMID: 26340624 PMCID: PMC4613233 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160920873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The conversion of somatic cells to hepatocytes has fundamentally re-shaped traditional concepts regarding the limited resources for hepatocyte therapy. With the various induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) generation routes, most somatic cells can be effectively directed to functional stem cells, and this strategy will supply enough pluripotent material to generate promising functional hepatocytes. However, the major challenges and potential applications of reprogrammed hepatocytes remain under investigation. In this review, we provide a summary of two effective routes including direct reprogramming and indirect reprogramming from somatic cells to hepatocytes and the general potential applications of the resulting hepatocytes. Through these approaches, we are striving toward the goal of achieving a robust, mature source of clinically relevant lineages.
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43
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44
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Cheng X, Yoshida H, Raoofi D, Saleh S, Alborzinia H, Wenke F, Göhring A, Reuter S, Mah N, Fuchs H, Andrade-Navarro MA, Adjaye J, Gul S, Utikal J, Mrowka R, Wölfl S. Ethyl 2-((4-Chlorophenyl)amino)thiazole-4-carboxylate and Derivatives Are Potent Inducers of Oct3/4. J Med Chem 2015; 58:5742-50. [PMID: 26143659 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b00226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct3/4) is a master gene in the transcriptional regulatory network of pluripotent cells. Repression of Oct3/4 in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is associated with cell differentiation and loss of pluripotency, whereas forced overexpression in cooperation with other transcriptional factors, such as Nanog, Sox2, and Lin28, can reprogram somatic cells back into pluripotent cells, termed induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). However, random integration and potential tumorigenic transformation caused by viral transduction limit the clinical application of iPSCs. By performing a cell-based high throughput screening (HTS) campaign, we identified several potential small molecules as inducers of Oct3/4 expression. Here we report a lead structure ethyl 2-((4-chlorophenyl)amino)-thiazole-4-carboxylate, termed O4I2, showing high activity in enforcing Oct3/4 expression. On the basis of chemical expansion, we further identified derivatives having increased activities toward Oct3/4 induction. Thus, O4I2 and its derivatives should provide a new class of small molecules suitable for iPSC generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlai Cheng
- †Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hiroki Yoshida
- †Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dena Raoofi
- †Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sawsan Saleh
- †Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hamed Alborzinia
- †Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Wenke
- ‡Experimentelle Nephrologie, KIM III, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Nonnenplan 2-4, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Axel Göhring
- ‡Experimentelle Nephrologie, KIM III, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Nonnenplan 2-4, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie Reuter
- ‡Experimentelle Nephrologie, KIM III, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Nonnenplan 2-4, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Nancy Mah
- §Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Heiko Fuchs
- ∥Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | | | - James Adjaye
- ∥Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Sheraz Gul
- ⊥European Screening Port GmbH, 22525 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Utikal
- #Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ralf Mrowka
- ‡Experimentelle Nephrologie, KIM III, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Nonnenplan 2-4, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan Wölfl
- †Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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45
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Maza I, Caspi I, Zviran A, Chomsky E, Rais Y, Viukov S, Geula S, Buenrostro JD, Weinberger L, Krupalnik V, Hanna S, Zerbib M, Dutton JR, Greenleaf WJ, Massarwa R, Novershtern N, Hanna JH. Transient acquisition of pluripotency during somatic cell transdifferentiation with iPSC reprogramming factors. Nat Biotechnol 2015; 33:769-74. [PMID: 26098448 PMCID: PMC4500825 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Somatic cells can be transdifferentiated to other cell types without passing through a pluripotent state by ectopic expression of appropriate transcription factors1,2. Recent reports have proposed an alternative transdifferentiation method in which fibroblasts are directly converted to various mature somatic cell types by brief expression of the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) reprogramming factors Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc (OSKM) followed by cell expansion in media that promote lineage differentiation3–6. Here we test this method using genetic lineage tracing for expression of endogenous Nanog and Oct4 and for X chromosome reactivation, as these events mark acquisition of pluripotency. We show that the vast majority of reprogrammed cardiomyocytes or neural stem cells obtained from mouse fibroblasts by OSKM-induced transdifferentiation pass through a transient pluripotent state, and that their derivation is molecularly coupled to iPSC formation mechanisms. Our findings underscore the importance of defining trajectories during cell reprogramming by different methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itay Maza
- 1] The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel. [2] The Department of Gastroenterology, Rambam Health Care Campus &Bruce Rappaport School of Medicine, Technion Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Inbal Caspi
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Asaf Zviran
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Elad Chomsky
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yoach Rais
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sergey Viukov
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Shay Geula
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jason D Buenrostro
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Leehee Weinberger
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Vladislav Krupalnik
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Suhair Hanna
- 1] The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel. [2] The Department of Pediatrics and the Pediatric Immunology Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus &Bruce Rappaport School of Medicine, Technion Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Mirie Zerbib
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - James R Dutton
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - William J Greenleaf
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Rada Massarwa
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noa Novershtern
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jacob H Hanna
- The Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Integrative Analysis of the Acquisition of Pluripotency in PGCs Reveals the Mutually Exclusive Roles of Blimp-1 and AKT Signaling. Stem Cell Reports 2015; 5:111-24. [PMID: 26050930 PMCID: PMC4618250 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are lineage-restricted unipotent cells that can dedifferentiate into pluripotent embryonic germ cells (EGCs). Here we performed whole-transcriptome analysis during the conversion of PGCs into EGCs, a process by which cells acquire pluripotency. To examine the molecular mechanism underlying this conversion, we focused on Blimp-1 and Akt, which are involved in PGC specification and dedifferentiation, respectively. Blimp-1 overexpression in embryonic stem cells suppressed the expression of downstream targets of the pluripotency network. Conversely, Blimp-1 deletion in PGCs accelerated their dedifferentiation into pluripotent EGCs, illustrating that Blimp-1 is a pluripotency gatekeeper protein in PGCs. AKT signaling showed a synergistic effect with basic fibroblast growth factor plus 2i+A83 treatment on EGC formation. AKT played a major role in suppressing genes regulated by MBD3. From these results, we defined the distinct functions of Blimp-1 and Akt and provided mechanistic insights into the acquisition of pluripotency in PGCs.
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47
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Zhu S, Wang H, Ding S. Reprogramming fibroblasts toward cardiomyocytes, neural stem cells and hepatocytes by cell activation and signaling-directed lineage conversion. Nat Protoc 2015; 10:959-73. [PMID: 26042385 DOI: 10.1038/nprot.2015.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Induction of tissue-specific cell types via a conventional transdifferentiation strategy typically uses overexpression of the corresponding lineage-specific transcription factors. Alternatively, somatic cells can be temporarily activated via a common set of reprogramming factors into a transition state, which can then be directed into various cell types via soluble lineage-specific signals, without establishing a pluripotent state. Here, we provide protocols for the generation of cardiomyocytes, neural stem cells and hepatocytes from fibroblasts with such a cell activation (CA) and signaling-directed (SD; CASD) strategy. In these protocols, beating cardiomyocytes can be induced from mouse fibroblasts in 2-5 weeks; expandable neural stem cells and definitive endoderm progenitors can be obtained from human fibroblasts as early as 2.5 weeks; and human definitive endoderm progenitors can be differentiated into functional hepatocytes in 2 weeks. Through further developments, the CASD strategy can serve as a unique avenue for generating diverse functional cell types for biomedical research and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saiyong Zhu
- 1] Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, California, USA. [2] Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine at the Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Haixia Wang
- 1] Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, California, USA. [2] Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine at the Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sheng Ding
- 1] Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, California, USA. [2] Roddenberry Center for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine at the Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, California, USA. [3] Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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48
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Therapeutical Strategies for Spinal Cord Injury and a Promising Autologous Astrocyte-Based Therapy Using Efficient Reprogramming Techniques. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:2826-2842. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9157-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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49
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Floyd ZE, Floyd EZ, Staszkiewicz J, Power RA, Kilroy G, Kirk-Ballard H, Barnes CW, Strickler KL, Rim JS, Harkins LL, Gao R, Kim J, Eilertsen KJ. Prolonged proteasome inhibition cyclically upregulates Oct3/4 and Nanog gene expression, but reduces induced pluripotent stem cell colony formation. Cell Reprogram 2015; 17:95-105. [PMID: 25826722 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2014.0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
There is ample evidence that the ubiquitin-proteasome system is an important regulator of transcription and its activity is necessary for maintaining pluripotency and promoting cellular reprogramming. Moreover, proteasome activity contributes to maintaining the open chromatin structure found in pluripotent stem cells, acting as a transcriptional inhibitor at specific gene loci generally associated with differentiation. The current study was designed to understand further the role of proteasome inhibition in reprogramming and its ability to modulate endogenous expression of pluripotency-related genes and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) colony formation. Herein, we demonstrate that acute combinatorial treatment with the proteasome inhibitors MG101 or MG132 and the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor valproic acid (VPA) increases gene expression of the pluripotency marker Oct3/4, and that MG101 alone is as effective as VPA in the induction of Oct3/4 mRNA expression in fibroblasts. Prolonged proteasome inhibition cyclically upregulates gene expression of Oct3/4 and Nanog, but reduces colony formation in the presence of the iPSC induction cocktail. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the 26S proteasome is an essential modulator in the reprogramming process. Its inhibition enhances expression of pluripotency-related genes; however, efficient colony formation requires proteasome activity. Therefore, discovery of small molecules that increase proteasome activity might lead to more efficient cell reprogramming and generation of pluripotent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Z Floyd
- 1 Ubiquitin Lab, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System , Baton Rouge, LA, 70803
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50
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Reprogramming with Small Molecules instead of Exogenous Transcription Factors. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2015:794632. [PMID: 25922608 PMCID: PMC4397468 DOI: 10.1155/2015/794632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) could be employed in the creation of patient-specific stem cells, which could subsequently be used in various basic and clinical applications. However, current iPSC methodologies present significant hidden risks with respect to genetic mutations and abnormal expression which are a barrier in realizing the full potential of iPSCs. A chemical approach is thought to be a promising strategy for safety and efficiency of iPSC generation. Many small molecules have been identified that can be used in place of exogenous transcription factors and significantly improve iPSC reprogramming efficiency and quality. Recent studies have shown that the use of small molecules results in the generation of chemically induced pluripotent stem cells from mouse embryonic fibroblast cells. These studies might lead to new areas of stem cell research and medical applications, not only human iPSC by chemicals alone, but also safe generation of somatic stem cells for cell based clinical trials and other researches. In this paper, we have reviewed the recent advances in small molecule approaches for the generation of iPSCs.
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