1
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Hosseini SM, Borys B, Karimi-Abdolrezaee S. Neural stem cell therapies for spinal cord injury repair: an update on recent preclinical and clinical advances. Brain 2024; 147:766-793. [PMID: 37975820 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a leading cause of lifelong disabilities. Permanent sensory, motor and autonomic impairments after SCI are substantially attributed to degeneration of spinal cord neurons and axons, and disintegration of neural network. To date, minimal regenerative treatments are available for SCI with an unmet need for new therapies to reconstruct the damaged spinal cord neuron-glia network and restore connectivity with the supraspinal pathways. Multipotent neural precursor cells (NPCs) have a unique capacity to generate neurons, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. Due to this capacity, NPCs have been an attractive cell source for cellular therapies for SCI. Transplantation of NPCs has been extensively tested in preclinical models of SCI in the past two decades. These studies have identified opportunities and challenges associated with NPC therapies. While NPCs have the potential to promote neuroregeneration through various mechanisms, their low long-term survival and integration within the host injured spinal cord limit the functional benefits of NPC-based therapies for SCI. To address this challenge, combinatorial strategies have been developed to optimize the outcomes of NPC therapies by enriching SCI microenvironment through biomaterials, genetic and pharmacological therapies. In this review, we will provide an in-depth discussion on recent advances in preclinical NPC-based therapies for SCI. We will discuss modes of actions and mechanism by which engrafted NPCs contribute to the repair process and functional recovery. We will also provide an update on current clinical trials and new technologies that have facilitated preparation of medical-grade human NPCs suitable for transplantation in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mojtaba Hosseini
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0J9, Canada
- Manitoba Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Ben Borys
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Soheila Karimi-Abdolrezaee
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0J9, Canada
- Manitoba Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0J9, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3P4, Canada
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2
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Marzoog BA. Transcription Factors in Brain Regeneration: A Potential Novel Therapeutic Target. Curr Drug Targets 2024; 25:46-61. [PMID: 38444255 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501279977231210170231] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Transcription factors play a crucial role in providing identity to each cell population. To maintain cell identity, it is essential to balance the expression of activator and inhibitor transcription factors. Cell plasticity and reprogramming offer great potential for future therapeutic applications, as they can regenerate damaged tissue. Specific niche factors can modify gene expression and differentiate or transdifferentiate the target cell to the required fate. Ongoing research is being carried out on the possibilities of transcription factors in regenerating neurons, with neural stem cells (NSCs) being considered the preferred cells for generating new neurons due to their epigenomic and transcriptome memory. NEUROD1/ASCL1, BRN2, MYTL1, and other transcription factors can induce direct reprogramming of somatic cells, such as fibroblasts, into neurons. However, the molecular biology of transcription factors in reprogramming and differentiation still needs to be fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basheer Abdullah Marzoog
- World-Class Research Center, Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare», I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
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3
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Kim TM, Lee RH, Kim MS, Lewis CA, Park C. ETV2/ER71, the key factor leading the paths to vascular regeneration and angiogenic reprogramming. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:41. [PMID: 36927793 PMCID: PMC10019431 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03267-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Extensive efforts have been made to achieve vascular regeneration accompanying tissue repair for treating vascular dysfunction-associated diseases. Recent advancements in stem cell biology and cell reprogramming have opened unforeseen opportunities to promote angiogenesis in vivo and generate autologous endothelial cells (ECs) for clinical use. We have, for the first time, identified a unique endothelial-specific transcription factor, ETV2/ER71, and revealed its essential role in regulating endothelial cell generation and function, along with vascular regeneration and tissue repair. Furthermore, we and other groups have demonstrated its ability to directly reprogram terminally differentiated non-ECs into functional ECs, proposing ETV2/ER71 as an effective therapeutic target for vascular diseases. In this review, we discuss the up-to-date status of studies on ETV2/ER71, spanning from its molecular mechanism to vasculo-angiogenic role and direct cell reprogramming toward ECs. Furthermore, we discuss future directions to deploy the clinical potential of ETV2/ER71 as a novel and potent target for vascular disorders such as cardiovascular disease, neurovascular impairment and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Min Kim
- Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology and Institutes of Green-Bio Science and Technology, Seoul National University, 1447 Pyeongchang-daero, Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do, 25354, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ra Ham Lee
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Min Seong Kim
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Chloe A Lewis
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Changwon Park
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA.
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4
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Xie D, Deng T, Zhai Z, Sun T, Xu Y. The cellular model for Alzheimer's disease research: PC12 cells. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1016559. [PMID: 36683856 PMCID: PMC9846650 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1016559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common age-related neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive cognitive decline and irreversible memory impairment. Currently, several studies have failed to fully elucidate AD's cellular and molecular mechanisms. For this purpose, research on related cellular models may propose potential predictive models for the drug development of AD. Therefore, many cells characterized by neuronal properties are widely used to mimic the pathological process of AD, such as PC12, SH-SY5Y, and N2a, especially the PC12 pheochromocytoma cell line. Thus, this review covers the most systematic essay that used PC12 cells to study AD. We depict the cellular source, culture condition, differentiation methods, transfection methods, drugs inducing AD, general approaches (evaluation methods and metrics), and in vitro cellular models used in parallel with PC12 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danni Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhenwei Zhai
- School of Medical Information Engineering, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Medical Information Engineering, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Xu
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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5
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Wu Y, Zhang D, Ye S, Liu Q, Huang B. Parabolic relationship between SMAD3 expression level and the reprogramming efficiency of goat induced mammary epithelial cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1002874. [PMID: 36313568 PMCID: PMC9614088 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1002874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammary epithelial cells are the only cells of mammary glands with lactation capacity. They are closely related to mammary development and milk yield. Our earlier studies showed that the transformation of goat fibroblasts into induced mammary epithelial cells (iMECs) was closely correlated with SMAD3 overexpression. Therefore, we further explored the role of SMAD3 on iMECs reprogramming in this study. The SMAD3 gene was overexpressed in goat ear fibroblasts using the tetracycline-induced expression method. The outcomes demonstrated that goat ear fibroblasts can be converted into iMECs by overexpressing the SMAD3 gene. In contrast, it was discovered that SMAD3 downregulation by RNA interference significantly decrease the reprogramming efficiency of iMECs. These results show that SMAD3 plays a key regulatory role in the reprogramming of iMECs. Surprisingly, we also found a parabolic relationship between SMAD3 expression level and iMECs reprogramming efficiency, and that the reprogramming efficiency was maximum when the addition of doxycycline concentration was 5 μg/ml. In light of this, our findings may offer new perspectives on the regulatory mechanism governing mammary epithelial cell fate in goats as well as a fresh approach to studying mammary development and differentiation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulian Wu
- Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences and the People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-8 Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences and the People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Sheng Ye
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-8 Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Quanhui Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-8 Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Ben Huang
- Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences and the People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-8 Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Ben Huang, ,
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6
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Conversion of Human Fibroblasts into Induced Neural Stem Cells by Small Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031740. [PMID: 35163660 PMCID: PMC8835839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) reprogrammed from somatic cells hold great potentials for drug discovery, disease modelling and the treatment of neurological diseases. Although studies have shown that human somatic cells can be converted into iNSCs by introducing transcription factors, these iNSCs are unlikely to be used for clinical application due to the safety concern of using exogenous genes and viral transduction vectors. Here, we report the successful conversion of human fibroblasts into iNSCs using a cocktail of small molecules. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that these human iNSCs (hiNSCs) have similar gene expression profiles to bona fide NSCs, can proliferate, and are capable of differentiating into glial cells and functional neurons. This study collectively describes a novel approach based on small molecules to produce hiNSCs from human fibroblasts, which may be useful for both research and therapeutic purposes.
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7
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Han F, Liu Y, Huang J, Zhang X, Wei C. Current Approaches and Molecular Mechanisms for Directly Reprogramming Fibroblasts Into Neurons and Dopamine Neurons. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:738529. [PMID: 34658841 PMCID: PMC8515543 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.738529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is mainly caused by specific degeneration of dopaminergic neurons (DA neurons) in the substantia nigra of the middle brain. Over the past two decades, transplantation of neural stem cells (NSCs) from fetal brain-derived neural stem cells (fNSCs), human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has been shown to improve the symptoms of motor dysfunction in Parkinson's disease (PD) animal models and PD patients significantly. However, there are ethical concerns with fNSCs and hESCs and there is an issue of rejection by the immune system, and the iPSCs may involve tumorigenicity caused by the integration of the transgenes. Recent studies have shown that somatic fibroblasts can be directly reprogrammed to NSCs, neurons, and specific dopamine neurons. Directly induced neurons (iN) or induced DA neurons (iDANs) from somatic fibroblasts have several advantages over iPSC cells. The neurons produced by direct transdifferentiation do not pass through a pluripotent state. Therefore, direct reprogramming can generate patient-specific cells, and it can overcome the safety problems of rejection by the immune system and teratoma formation related to hESCs and iPSCs. However, there are some critical issues such as the low efficiency of direct reprogramming, biological functions, and risks from the directly converted neurons, which hinder their clinical applications. Here, the recent progress in methods, mechanisms, and future challenges of directly reprogramming somatic fibroblasts into neurons or dopamine neurons were summarized to speed up the clinical translation of these directly converted neural cells to treat PD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabin Han
- Innovation Institute for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shenzhen Research Institute of Shandong University, Jinan, China.,The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Yanming Liu
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Shandong University, Jinan, China.,The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Jin Huang
- Laboratory of Basic Medical Research, Medical Centre of PLA Strategic Support Force, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chuanfei Wei
- The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
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8
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Fernandez-Muñoz B, Garcia-Delgado AB, Arribas-Arribas B, Sanchez-Pernaute R. Human Neural Stem Cells for Cell-Based Medicinal Products. Cells 2021; 10:2377. [PMID: 34572024 PMCID: PMC8469920 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells represent an attractive tool for the development of regenerative therapies and are being tested in clinical trials for several neurological disorders. Human neural stem cells can be isolated from the central nervous system or can be derived in vitro from pluripotent stem cells. Embryonic sources are ethically controversial and other sources are less well characterized and/or inefficient. Recently, isolation of NSC from the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with spina bifida and with intracerebroventricular hemorrhage has been reported. Direct reprogramming may become another alternative if genetic and phenotypic stability of the reprogrammed cells is ensured. Here, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of available sources of neural stem cells for the production of cell-based therapies for clinical applications. We review available safety and efficacy clinical data and discuss scalability and quality control considerations for manufacturing clinical grade cell products for successful clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Fernandez-Muñoz
- Cellular Reprogramming and Production Unit, Andalusian Network for the Design and Translation of Advanced Therapies, 41092 Sevilla, Spain; (A.B.G.-D.); (B.A.-A.)
| | - Ana Belen Garcia-Delgado
- Cellular Reprogramming and Production Unit, Andalusian Network for the Design and Translation of Advanced Therapies, 41092 Sevilla, Spain; (A.B.G.-D.); (B.A.-A.)
| | - Blanca Arribas-Arribas
- Cellular Reprogramming and Production Unit, Andalusian Network for the Design and Translation of Advanced Therapies, 41092 Sevilla, Spain; (A.B.G.-D.); (B.A.-A.)
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rosario Sanchez-Pernaute
- Cellular Reprogramming and Production Unit, Andalusian Network for the Design and Translation of Advanced Therapies, 41092 Sevilla, Spain; (A.B.G.-D.); (B.A.-A.)
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9
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Vasan L, Park E, David LA, Fleming T, Schuurmans C. Direct Neuronal Reprogramming: Bridging the Gap Between Basic Science and Clinical Application. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:681087. [PMID: 34291049 PMCID: PMC8287587 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.681087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct neuronal reprogramming is an innovative new technology that involves the conversion of somatic cells to induced neurons (iNs) without passing through a pluripotent state. The capacity to make new neurons in the brain, which previously was not achievable, has created great excitement in the field as it has opened the door for the potential treatment of incurable neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries such as stroke. These neurological disorders are associated with frank neuronal loss, and as new neurons are not made in most of the adult brain, treatment options are limited. Developmental biologists have paved the way for the field of direct neuronal reprogramming by identifying both intrinsic cues, primarily transcription factors (TFs) and miRNAs, and extrinsic cues, including growth factors and other signaling molecules, that induce neurogenesis and specify neuronal subtype identities in the embryonic brain. The striking observation that postmitotic, terminally differentiated somatic cells can be converted to iNs by mis-expression of TFs or miRNAs involved in neural lineage development, and/or by exposure to growth factors or small molecule cocktails that recapitulate the signaling environment of the developing brain, has opened the door to the rapid expansion of new neuronal reprogramming methodologies. Furthermore, the more recent applications of neuronal lineage conversion strategies that target resident glial cells in situ has expanded the clinical potential of direct neuronal reprogramming techniques. Herein, we present an overview of the history, accomplishments, and therapeutic potential of direct neuronal reprogramming as revealed over the last two decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmy Vasan
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eunjee Park
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Luke Ajay David
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Taylor Fleming
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Carol Schuurmans
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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10
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Combination of Melatonin and Small Molecules Improved Reprogramming Neural Cell Fates via Autophagy Activation. Neurochem Res 2021; 47:2580-2590. [PMID: 34165669 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03382-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Reprogramming cell fates towards mature cell types are a promising cell supply for treating degenerative diseases. Recently, transcription factors and some small molecules have turned into impressive modulating elements for reprogramming cell fates. Melatonin, a pineal hormone, has neuroprotective functions including neural stem cell (NSC) proliferative and differentiative modulation in both embryonic and adult brain. We developed a protocol that could be implemented in the direct reprogramming of human skin fibroblast towards neural cells by using histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) inhibitor (CHIR99021), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor, rho-associated protein kinase inhibitor (Y-27632), cAMP activator, and melatonin treatment. We found that melatonin enhanced neural-transcription factor genes expressions, including brain-specific homeobox/POU domain protein 2 (BRN2), Achaete-Scute Family BHLH transcription Factor 1 (ASCL1), and Myelin Transcription Factor 1 Like (MYT1L). Melatonin also increased the expression of different neural-specific proteins such as doublecortin (DCX), Sex determining region Y-box 2 (Sox2), and neuronal nuclei (NeuN) compared with other five small molecules (valproic acid (VPA), CHIR99021, Forskolin, 1,9 pyrazoloanthrone (SP600125), and Y-27632) combination in the presence and absence of melatonin. A noticeable upregulation of autophagy proteins (microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3) and Beclin-1) were seen in the melatonin treatment during the induction period while these were reverted in the presence of L-leucine, an autophagy inhibitor. In addition, the expression of NeuN was also significantly reduced by L-leucine. Collectively, our findings revealed an activation of autophagy during neural induction; melatonin enhanced reprogramming efficiency for neuron induction through the modulation of autophagy activation.
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11
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Xie X, Mahmood SR, Gjorgjieva T, Percipalle P. Emerging roles of cytoskeletal proteins in regulating gene expression and genome organization during differentiation. Nucleus 2020; 11:53-65. [PMID: 32212905 PMCID: PMC7289583 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2020.1742066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the eukaryotic cell nucleus, cytoskeletal proteins are emerging as essential players in nuclear function. In particular, actin regulates chromatin as part of ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes, it modulates transcription and it is incorporated into nascent ribonucleoprotein complexes, accompanying them from the site of transcription to polyribosomes. The nuclear actin pool is undistinguishable from the cytoplasmic one in terms of its ability to undergo polymerization and it has also been implicated in the dynamics of chromatin, regulating heterochromatin segregation at the nuclear lamina and maintaining heterochromatin levels in the nuclear interiors. One of the next frontiers is, therefore, to determine a possible involvement of nuclear actin in the functional architecture of the cell nucleus by regulating the hierarchical organization of chromatin and, thus, genome organization. Here, we discuss the repertoire of these potential actin functions and how they are likely to play a role in the context of cellular differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xie
- Science Division, Biology Program, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - S Raza Mahmood
- Science Division, Biology Program, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tamara Gjorgjieva
- Science Division, Biology Program, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Piergiorgio Percipalle
- Science Division, Biology Program, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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12
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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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13
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Valerio LSA, Sugaya K. Xeno- and transgene-free reprogramming of mesenchymal stem cells toward the cells expressing neural markers using exosome treatments. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240469. [PMID: 33048978 PMCID: PMC7553345 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs), capable of self-renew and differentiate into neural cells, hold promise for use in studies and treatments for neurological diseases. However, current approaches to obtain NSCs from a live brain are risky and invasive, since NSCs reside in the subventricular zone and the in the hippocampus dentate gyrus. Alternatively, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could be a more available cell source due to their abundance in tissues and easier to access. However, MSCs are committed to producing mesenchymal tissue and are not capable of spontaneously differentiating into neural cells. Thus, the process of reprogramming of MSCs into neural cells to use in clinical and scientific settings has significantly impacted the advancement of regenerative medicine. Previously, our laboratory reported trans-differentiation of MSCs to neural cells through the induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells state, which was produced by overexpression of the embryonic stem cell gene NANOG. In the current study, we demonstrate that treatment with exosomes derived from NSCs makes MSCs capable of expressing neural cell markers bypassing the generation of iPS cells. An epigenetic modifier, decitabine (5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine), enhanced the process. This novel Xeno and transgene-free trans-differentiation technology eliminates the issues associated with iPS cells, such as tumorigenesis. Thus, it may accelerate the development of neurodegenerative therapies and in vitro neurological disorder models for personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Sebástian Alexis Valerio
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States of America
- Institute for Scientific Research and Technology Services (INDICASAT), Panama City, Republic of Panama
- Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, India
| | - Kiminobu Sugaya
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States of America
- Institute for Scientific Research and Technology Services (INDICASAT), Panama City, Republic of Panama
- * E-mail:
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14
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Yi B, Dissanayaka WL, Zhang C. Growth Factors and Small-molecule Compounds in Derivation of Endothelial Lineages from Dental Stem Cells. J Endod 2020; 46:S63-S70. [PMID: 32950197 DOI: 10.1016/j.joen.2020.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Incorporating fully assembled microvascular networks into bioengineered dental pulp constructs can significantly enhance functional blood flow and tissue survival upon transplantation. Endothelial cells (ECs), cellular building blocks of vascular tissue, play an essential role in the process of prevascularization. However, obtaining sufficient ECs from a suitable source for translational application is challenging. Dental stem cells (DSCs), which exhibit a robust proliferative ability and immunocompatibility because of their autologous origin, could be a promising alternative cell source for the derivation of endothelial lineages. Under specific culture conditions, DSCs differentiate into osteo/odontogenic, adipogenic, chondrogenic, and neurogenic cell lineages. METHODS Recently, a new approach has been developed to directly reprogram cells using chemical cocktails and growth factors. Compared with the traditional reprogramming approach based on the forced expression of exogenous transcription factors, the chemical strategy avoids the risk associated with lentiviral transduction while offering a more viable methodology to drive cell lineage switch. The aim of this review was to unveil the concept of the use of small-molecule compounds and growth factors modulating key signaling pathways to derive ECs from DSCs. RESULTS In addition, our preliminary study showed that stem cells from the apical papilla could be induced into EC-like cells using small-molecule compounds and growth factors. These EC-like cells expressed endothelial specific genes (CD31 and VEGFR2) and proteins (CD31, VEGF receptor 2, and vascular endothelial cadherin) as well as gave rise to vessel-like tubular structures in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Our preliminary results suggest that chemical reprogramming might offer a novel way to generate EC-like cells from dental stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baicheng Yi
- Restorative Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Waruna Lakmal Dissanayaka
- Restorative Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Chengfei Zhang
- Restorative Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China.
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15
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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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16
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Desai D, Khanna A, Pethe P. Inhibition of RING1B alters lineage specificity in human embryonic stem cells. Cell Biol Int 2020; 44:1299-1311. [PMID: 32068319 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are histone modifiers which are known to perform transcriptional repression and have been shown to be critical during murine embryonic development. PcGs are broadly characterized into polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) and 2 and (PRC2). RING1B, core catalytic unit of PRC1 performs H2AK119 monoubiquitination leading to transcriptional repression. We used human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line to study the fate of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) under inhibition of RING1B, as its role in human development is still to be completely explored. Embryoid bodies (EBs) were generated to differentiate hESCs using hanging drop method. PRT4165 (synthetic RING1B catalytic activity inhibitor) was added to undifferentiated and differentiated cells for 24 h. When we inhibited RING1B in undifferentiated cells, OCT4 levels remained unchanged indicating RING1B does not regulate pluripotency. The drug when added to differentiated cells led to decrease in the levels of RING1B, BMI1, and H2AK119ub1. Interestingly, we also report that the differentiated cells show an increased expression of neuroectodermal markers: SOX1 and PAX6 as well as expression of other neuroectodermal markers such as TUJ1, FOXG1, and NCAM. However, there was reduction in expression of endodermal (SOX17 and FOXA2) mesodermal marker BRACHYURY and TBX5 in treated EBs compared with control EBs. In summary, alteration of RING1B catalytic activity in hESCs during differentiation promotes neuroectodermal differentiation thus, we demonstrate critical role of RING1B in regulating neural differentiation. The strategy of inhibiting RING1B could be used to direct PSCs towards early neuronal fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Desai
- Department of Biological Sciences, NMIMS Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, 400056, India
| | - Aparna Khanna
- Department of Biological Sciences, NMIMS Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, 400056, India
| | - Prasad Pethe
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis International University, Pune, 412115, India
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17
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Yavarpour-Bali H, Ghasemi-Kasman M, Shojaei A. Direct reprogramming of terminally differentiated cells into neurons: A novel and promising strategy for Alzheimer's disease treatment. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 98:109820. [PMID: 31743695 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Glial activation is a common pathological process of the central nervous system (CNS) in disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several approaches have been used to reduce the number of activated astrocytes and microglia in damaged areas. In recent years, various kinds of fully differentiated cells have been successfully reprogrammed to a desired type of cell in lesion areas. Interestingly, internal glial cells, including astrocytes and NG2 positive cells, were efficiently converted to neuroblasts and neurons by overexpression of some transcription factors (TFs) or microRNAs (miRNAs). Notably, some specific subtypes of neurons have been achieved by in vivo reprogramming and the resulting neurons were successfully integrated into local neuronal circuits. Furthermore, somatic cells from AD patients have been converted to functional neurons. Although direct reprogramming of a patient's own internal cells has revolutionized regenerative medicine, but there are some major obstacles that should be examined before using these induced cells in clinical therapies. In the present review article, we aim to discuss the current studies on in vitro and in vivo reprogramming of somatic cells to neurons using TFs, miRNAs or small molecules in healthy and AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Ghasemi-Kasman
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | - Amir Shojaei
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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18
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HORISAWA K, SUZUKI A. Direct cell-fate conversion of somatic cells: Toward regenerative medicine and industries. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2020; 96:131-158. [PMID: 32281550 PMCID: PMC7247973 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.96.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Cells of multicellular organisms have diverse characteristics despite having the same genetic identity. The distinctive phenotype of each cell is determined by molecular mechanisms such as epigenetic changes that occur throughout the lifetime of an individual. Recently, technologies that enable modification of the fate of somatic cells have been developed, and the number of studies using these technologies has increased drastically in the last decade. Various cell types, including neuronal cells, cardiomyocytes, and hepatocytes, have been generated using these technologies. Although most direct reprogramming methods employ forced transduction of a defined sets of transcription factors to reprogram cells in a manner similar to induced pluripotent cell technology, many other strategies, such as methods utilizing chemical compounds and microRNAs to change the fate of somatic cells, have also been developed. In this review, we summarize transcription factor-based reprogramming and various other reprogramming methods. Additionally, we describe the various industrial applications of direct reprogramming technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi HORISAWA
- Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Atsushi SUZUKI
- Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
- Correspondence should be addressed: A. Suzuki, Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan (e-mail: )
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19
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Erharter A, Rizzi S, Mertens J, Edenhofer F. Take the shortcut - direct conversion of somatic cells into induced neural stem cells and their biomedical applications. FEBS Lett 2019; 593:3353-3369. [PMID: 31663609 PMCID: PMC6916337 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Second-generation reprogramming of somatic cells directly into the cell type of interest avoids induction of pluripotency and subsequent cumbersome differentiation procedures. Several recent studies have reported direct conversion of human somatic cells into stably proliferating induced neural stem cells (iNSCs). Importantly, iNSCs are easier, faster, and more cost-efficient to generate than induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and also have a higher level of clinical safety. Stably, self-renewing iNSCs can be derived from different cellular sources, such as skin fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and readily differentiate into neuronal and glial lineages that are indistinguishable from their iPSC-derived counterparts or from NSCs isolated from primary tissues. This review focuses on the derivation and characterization of iNSCs and their biomedical applications. We first outline different approaches to generate iNSCs and then discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms. Finally, we summarize the preclinical validation of iNSCs to highlight that these cells are promising targets for disease modeling, autologous cell therapy, and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Erharter
- Department of Molecular Biology & CMBI, Genomics, Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sandra Rizzi
- Department of Molecular Biology & CMBI, Genomics, Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Austria.,Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jerome Mertens
- Department of Molecular Biology & CMBI, Genomics, Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Frank Edenhofer
- Department of Molecular Biology & CMBI, Genomics, Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Austria
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20
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Xu G, Wu F, Gu X, Zhang J, You K, Chen Y, Getachew A, Zhuang Y, Zhong X, Lin Z, Guo D, Yang F, Pan T, Wei H, Li YX. Direct Conversion of Human Urine Cells to Neurons by Small Molecules. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16707. [PMID: 31723223 PMCID: PMC6854089 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53007-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transdifferentiation of other cell type into human neuronal cells (hNCs) provides a platform for neural disease modeling, drug screening and potential cell-based therapies. Among all of the cell donor sources, human urine cells (hUCs) are convenient to obtain without invasive harvest procedure. Here, we report a novel approach for the transdifferentiation of hUCs into hNCs. Our study demonstrated that a combination of seven small molecules (CAYTFVB) cocktail induced transdifferentiation of hUCs into hNCs. These chemical-induced neuronal cells (CiNCs) exhibited typical neuron-like morphology and expressed mature neuronal markers. The neuronal-like morphology revealed in day 1, and the Tuj1-positive CiNCs reached to about 58% in day 5 and 38.36% Tuj1+/MAP2+ double positive cells in day 12. Partial electrophysiological properties of CiNCs was obtained using patch clamp. Most of the CiNCs generated using our protocol were glutamatergic neuron populations, whereas motor neurons, GABAergic or dopaminergic neurons were merely detected. hUCs derived from different donors were converted into CiNCs in this work. This method may provide a feasible and noninvasive approach for reprogramming hNCs from hUCs for disease models and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guosheng Xu
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feima Wu
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotong Gu
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaye Zhang
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai You
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Anteneh Getachew
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanqi Zhuang
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofen Zhong
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zuoxian Lin
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongsheng Guo
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tingcai Pan
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongcheng Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yin-Xiong Li
- Institute of Public Health, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.
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21
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Boese AC, Hamblin MH, Lee JP. Neural stem cell therapy for neurovascular injury in Alzheimer's disease. Exp Neurol 2019; 324:113112. [PMID: 31730762 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration leading to severe cognitive decline and eventual death. AD pathophysiology is complex, but neurotoxic accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylation of Tau are believed to be main drivers of neurodegeneration in AD. The formation and deposition of Aβ plaques occurs in the brain parenchyma as well as in the cerebral vasculature. Thus, proper blood-brain barrier (BBB) and cerebrovascular functioning are crucial for clearance of Aβ from the brain, and neurovascular dysfunction may be a critical component of AD development. Further, neuroinflammation and dysfunction of angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and neurorestorative capabilities play a role in AD pathophysiology. Currently, there is no effective treatment to prevent or restore loss of brain tissue and cognitive decline in patients with AD. Based on multifactorial and complex pathophysiological cascades in multiple Alzheimer's disease stages, effective AD therapies need to focus on targeting early AD pathology and preserving cerebrovascular function. Neural stem cells (NSCs) participate extensively in mammalian brain homeostasis and repair and exhibit pleiotropic intrinsic properties that likely make them attractive candidates for the treatment of AD. In the review, we summarize the current advances in knowledge regarding neurovascular aspects of AD-related neurodegeneration and discuss multiple actions of NSCs from preclinical studies of AD to evaluate their potential for future clinical treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin C Boese
- Department of Physiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Milton H Hamblin
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Jean-Pyo Lee
- Department of Physiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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22
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Ge JY, Zheng YW, Liu LP, Isoda H, Oda T. Impelling force and current challenges by chemicals in somatic cell reprogramming and expansion beyond hepatocytes. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:650-665. [PMID: 31616541 PMCID: PMC6789182 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i9.650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the field of regenerative medicine, generating numerous transplantable functional cells in the laboratory setting on a large scale is a major challenge. However, the in vitro maintenance and expansion of terminally differentiated cells are challenging because of the lack of specific environmental and intercellular signal stimulations, markedly hindering their therapeutic application. Remarkably, the generation of stem/progenitor cells or functional cells with effective proliferative potential is markedly in demand for disease modeling, cell-based transplantation, and drug discovery. Despite the potent genetic manipulation of transcription factors, integration-free chemically defined approaches for the conversion of somatic cell fate have garnered considerable attention in recent years. This review aims to summarize the progress thus far and discuss the advantages, limitations, and challenges of the impact of full chemicals on the stepwise reprogramming of pluripotency, direct lineage conversion, and direct lineage expansion on somatic cells. Owing to the current chemical-mediated induction, reprogrammed pluripotent stem cells with reproducibility difficulties, and direct lineage converted cells with marked functional deficiency, it is imperative to generate the desired cell types directly by chemically inducing their potent proliferation ability through a lineage-committed progenitor state, while upholding the maturation and engraftment capacity posttransplantation in vivo. Together with the comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of chemical drives, as well as the elucidation of specificity and commonalities, the precise manipulation of the expansion for diverse functional cell types could broaden the available cell sources and enhance the cellular function for clinical application in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Yun Ge
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Yun-Wen Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Affiliated Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Li-Ping Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Affiliated Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hiroko Isoda
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Oda
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
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23
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Pavathuparambil Abdul Manaph N, Sivanathan KN, Nitschke J, Zhou XF, Coates PT, Drogemuller CJ. An overview on small molecule-induced differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into beta cells for diabetic therapy. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:293. [PMID: 31547868 PMCID: PMC6757413 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1396-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of regenerative medicine provides enormous opportunities for generating beta cells from different stem cell sources for cellular therapy. Even though insulin-secreting cells can be generated from a variety of stem cell types like pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells, the ideal functional cells should be generated from patients' own cells and expanded to considerable levels by non-integrative culture techniques. In terms of the ease of isolation, plasticity, and clinical translation to generate autologous cells, mesenchymal stem cell stands superior. Furthermore, small molecules offer a great advantage in terms of generating functional beta cells from stem cells. Research suggests that most of the mesenchymal stem cell-based protocols to generate pancreatic beta cells have small molecules in their cocktail. However, most of the protocols generate cells that mimic the characteristics of human beta cells, thereby generating "beta cell-like cells" as opposed to mature beta cells. Diabetic therapy becomes feasible only when there are robust, functional, and safe cells for replacing the damaged or lost beta cells. In this review, we discuss the current protocols used to generate beta cells from mesenchymal cells, with emphasis on small molecule-mediated conversion into insulin-producing beta cell-like cells. Our data and the data presented from the references within this review would suggest that although mesenchymal stem cells are an attractive cell type for cell therapy they are not readily converted into functional mature beta cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimshitha Pavathuparambil Abdul Manaph
- Central Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia. .,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia. .,School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia. .,Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Kisha N Sivanathan
- Central Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia.,School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia.,Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jodie Nitschke
- Central Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia.,School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Xin-Fu Zhou
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Patrick T Coates
- Central Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia.,School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Christopher John Drogemuller
- Central Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia.,School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
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24
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Duan Q, Li S, Wen X, Sunnassee G, Chen J, Tan S, Guo Y. Valproic Acid Enhances Reprogramming Efficiency and Neuronal Differentiation on Small Molecules Staged-Induction Neural Stem Cells: Suggested Role of mTOR Signaling. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:867. [PMID: 31551670 PMCID: PMC6737087 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Inducing somatic cells into neural stem cells (iNSCs) in specific ways provides a new cell therapy in a variety of neurological diseases. In the past, iNSCs were generated by transcription factors which increased the risk of mutagenesis, tumor formations, and immune reactions by viral transduction vectors. Therefore, in this study, different small molecules were used to induce mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) into iNSCs in different reprogramming stages, which showed high reprogramming efficiency without altering the genome. We demonstrated that the small molecules staged-induction neural stem cells (SMSINS) have the characteristics of neural stem cells (NSCs) in morphology, gene expression, self-renewal and differentiation potential. Furthermore, valproic acid (VPA), one of small molecules, was showed to enhance neural induction with highest efficiency compared with six other small molecules, which were also investigated in the present study. Moreover, our results suggested that activating the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling enhanced the induction efficiency and neuronal differentiation. Collectively, our findings indicated that using this induction program allowed us to obtain safe and efficient iNSCs which were free of genetic manipulation. The VPA-mediated mTOR signaling pathway may enhance reprogramming efficiency and neuronal differentiation. So we suggested that this program could be a new method of obtaining iNSCs for the treatment of neurological diseases by cell replacement therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingrui Duan
- Department of Neurology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Siyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinrui Wen
- Department of Neurology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gavin Sunnassee
- Department of Neurology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Neurology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sheng Tan
- Department of Neurology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Department of Neurology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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25
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Flitsch LJ, Brüstle O. Evolving principles underlying neural lineage conversion and their relevance for biomedical translation. F1000Res 2019; 8. [PMID: 31559012 PMCID: PMC6743253 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.18926.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific and technological advances of the past decade have shed light on the mechanisms underlying cell fate acquisition, including its transcriptional and epigenetic regulation during embryonic development. This knowledge has enabled us to purposefully engineer cell fates
in vitro by manipulating expression levels of lineage-instructing transcription factors. Here, we review the state of the art in the cell programming field with a focus on the derivation of neural cells. We reflect on what we know about the mechanisms underlying fate changes in general and on the degree of epigenetic remodeling conveyed by the distinct reprogramming and direct conversion strategies available. Moreover, we discuss the implications of residual epigenetic memory for biomedical applications such as disease modeling and neuroregeneration. Finally, we cover recent developments approaching cell fate conversion in the living brain and define questions which need to be addressed before cell programming can become an integral part of translational medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Jessica Flitsch
- Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, University of Bonn School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, North Rhine Wesphalia, 53127, Germany
| | - Oliver Brüstle
- Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, University of Bonn School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, North Rhine Wesphalia, 53127, Germany
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26
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Gancheva MR, Kremer KL, Gronthos S, Koblar SA. Using Dental Pulp Stem Cells for Stroke Therapy. Front Neurol 2019; 10:422. [PMID: 31110489 PMCID: PMC6501465 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a leading cause of permanent disability world-wide, but aside from rehabilitation, there is currently no clinically-proven pharmaceutical or biological agent to improve neurological disability. Cell-based therapies using stem cells, such as dental pulp stem cells, are a promising alternative for treatment of neurological diseases, including stroke. The ischaemic environment in stroke affects multiple cell populations, thus stem cells, which act through cellular and molecular mechanisms, are promising candidates. The most common stem cell population studied in the neurological setting has been mesenchymal stem cells due to their accessibility. However, it is believed that neural stem cells, the resident stem cell of the adult brain, would be most appropriate for brain repair. Using reprogramming strategies, alternative sources of neural stem and progenitor cells have been explored. We postulate that a cell of closer origin to the neural lineage would be a promising candidate for reprogramming and modification towards a neural stem or progenitor cell. One such candidate population is dental pulp stem cells, which reside in the root canal of teeth. This review will focus on the neural potential of dental pulp stem cells and their investigations in the stroke setting to date, and include an overview on the use of different sources of neural stem cells in preclinical studies and clinical trials of stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria R. Gancheva
- Stroke Research Programme Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Karlea L. Kremer
- Stroke Research Programme Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stan Gronthos
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Simon A. Koblar
- Stroke Research Programme Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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27
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Transdifferentiation: a new promise for neurodegenerative diseases. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:830. [PMID: 30082779 PMCID: PMC6078988 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0891-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by a gradual loss of cognitive and physical functions. Medications for these disorders are limited and treat the symptoms only. There are no disease-modifying therapies available, which have been shown to slow or stop the continuing loss of neurons. Transdifferentiation, whereby somatic cells are reprogrammed into another lineage without going through an intermediate proliferative pluripotent stem cell stage, provides an alternative strategy for regenerative medicine and disease modeling. In particular, the transdifferentiation of somatic cells into specific subset of patient-specific neuronal cells offers alternative autologous cell therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders and presents a rich source of using diverse somatic cell types for relevant applications in translational, personalized medicine, as well as human mechanistic study, new drug-target identification, and novel drug screening systems. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the recent development of transdifferentiation research, with particular attention to chemical-induced transdifferentiation and perspectives for modeling and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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28
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Direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into neural stem cells by single non-neural progenitor transcription factor Ptf1a. Nat Commun 2018; 9:2865. [PMID: 30030434 PMCID: PMC6054649 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-05209-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) reprogrammed from somatic cells have great potentials in cell replacement therapies and in vitro modeling of neural diseases. Direct conversion of fibroblasts into iNSCs has been shown to depend on a couple of key neural progenitor transcription factors (TFs), raising the question of whether such direct reprogramming can be achieved by non-neural progenitor TFs. Here we report that the non-neural progenitor TF Ptf1a alone is sufficient to directly reprogram mouse and human fibroblasts into self-renewable iNSCs capable of differentiating into functional neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, and improving cognitive dysfunction of Alzheimer’s disease mouse models when transplanted. The reprogramming activity of Ptf1a depends on its Notch-independent interaction with Rbpj which leads to subsequent activation of expression of TF genes and Notch signaling required for NSC specification, self-renewal, and homeostasis. Together, our data identify a non-canonical and safer approach to establish iNSCs for research and therapeutic purposes. Fibroblasts can be reprogrammed into induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) using transcription factors expressed in neural progenitors. Here the authors show that Ptf1a, which is normally expressed in postmitotic neurons, can reprogram fibroblasts to iNSCs through Notch independent interaction with Rbpj.
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29
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Golas MM. Human cellular models of medium spiny neuron development and Huntington disease. Life Sci 2018; 209:179-196. [PMID: 30031060 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The loss of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the striatum is the hallmark of Huntington disease (HD), an incurable neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor, psychiatric, and cognitive symptoms. Transplantation of MSNs or their precursors represents a promising treatment strategy for HD. In initial clinical trials in which HD patients received fetal neurografts directly into the striatum without a pretransplant cell-differentiation step, some patients exhibited temporary benefits. Meanwhile, major challenges related to graft overgrowth, insufficient survival of grafted cells, and limited availability of donated fetal tissue remain. Thus, the development of approaches that allow modeling of MSN differentiation and HD development in cell culture platforms may improve our understanding of HD and translate, ultimately, into HD treatment options. Here, recent advances in the in vitro differentiation of MSNs derived from fetal neural stem cells/progenitor cells (NSCs/NPCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and induced NSCs (iNSCs) as well as advances in direct transdifferentiation are reviewed. Progress in non-allele specific and allele specific gene editing of HTT is presented as well. Cell characterization approaches involving phenotyping as well as in vitro and in vivo functional assays are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika M Golas
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Alle 3, Building 1233, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; Department of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany.
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30
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Chemical compound-based direct reprogramming for future clinical applications. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20171650. [PMID: 29739872 PMCID: PMC5938430 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20171650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that a combination of chemical compounds enables direct reprogramming from one somatic cell type into another without the use of transgenes by regulating cellular signaling pathways and epigenetic modifications. The generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells generally requires virus vector-mediated expression of multiple transcription factors, which might disrupt genomic integrity and proper cell functions. The direct reprogramming is a promising alternative to rapidly prepare different cell types by bypassing the pluripotent state. Because the strategy also depends on forced expression of exogenous lineage-specific transcription factors, the direct reprogramming in a chemical compound-based manner is an ideal approach to further reduce the risk for tumorigenesis. So far, a number of reported research efforts have revealed that combinations of chemical compounds and cell-type specific medium transdifferentiate somatic cells into desired cell types including neuronal cells, glial cells, neural stem cells, brown adipocytes, cardiomyocytes, somatic progenitor cells, and pluripotent stem cells. These desired cells rapidly converted from patient-derived autologous fibroblasts can be applied for their own transplantation therapy to avoid immune rejection. However, complete chemical compound-induced conversions remain challenging particularly in adult human-derived fibroblasts compared with mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). This review summarizes up-to-date progress in each specific cell type and discusses prospects for future clinical application toward cell transplantation therapy.
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31
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Liu D, Pavathuparambil Abdul Manaph N, Al-Hawwas M, Zhou XF, Liao H. Small Molecules for Neural Stem Cell Induction. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:297-312. [PMID: 29343174 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2017.0282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from other somatic cells has provided great hopes for transplantation therapies. However, these cells still cannot be used for clinical application due to the low reprogramming and differentiation efficiency beside the risk of mutagenesis and tumor formation. Compared to iPSCs, induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) are easier to terminally differentiate into neural cells and safe; thus, iNSCs hold more opportunities than iPSCs to treat neural diseases. On the other hand, recent studies have showed that small molecules (SMs) can dramatically improve the efficiency of reprogramming and SMs alone can even convert one kind of somatic cells into another, which is much safer and more effective than transcription factor-based methods. In this study, we provide a review of SMs that are generally used in recent neural stem cell induction studies, and discuss the main mechanisms and pathways of each SM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghui Liu
- 1 Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing, China .,2 School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, University of South Austrralia , Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Nimshitha Pavathuparambil Abdul Manaph
- 2 School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, University of South Austrralia , Adelaide, South Australia .,3 Central Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital , Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Mohammed Al-Hawwas
- 2 School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, University of South Austrralia , Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Xin-Fu Zhou
- 2 School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, University of South Austrralia , Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Hong Liao
- 1 Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing, China
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32
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Qin H, Zhao A, Fu X. Small molecules for reprogramming and transdifferentiation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:3553-3575. [PMID: 28698932 PMCID: PMC11107793 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2586-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Pluripotency reprogramming and transdifferentiation induced by transcription factors can generate induced pluripotent stem cells, adult stem cells or specialized cells. However, the induction efficiency and the reintroduction of exogenous genes limit their translation into clinical applications. Small molecules that target signaling pathways, epigenetic modifications, or metabolic processes can regulate cell development, cell fate, and function. In the recent decade, small molecules have been widely used in reprogramming and transdifferentiation fields, which can promote the induction efficiency, replace exogenous genes, or even induce cell fate conversion alone. Small molecules are expected as novel approaches to generate new cells from somatic cells in vitro and in vivo. Here, we will discuss the recent progress, new insights, and future challenges about the use of small molecules in cell fate conversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Qin
- Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Andong Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xiaobing Fu
- Key Laboratory of Wound Repair and Regeneration of PLA, The First Hospital Affiliated to the PLA General Hospital, 51 Fu Cheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China.
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33
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Shahbazi E, Mirakhori F, Ezzatizadeh V, Baharvand H. Reprogramming of somatic cells to induced neural stem cells. Methods 2017; 133:21-28. [PMID: 28939501 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2017] [Revised: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent investigations have demonstrated that defined sets of exogenous factors (chemical and/or biochemical) can convert human and mouse somatic cells into induced neural stem cells (iNSCs). Considering the self-renewal and multi-potential differentiation capabilities of iNSCs, generation of these cells has considerably enhanced cell therapy for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. These cells can also serve as models for investigation of the mechanism(s) underlying neurodegenerative diseases and as an asset in drug discovery. Meanwhile, using the process of direct conversion/transdifferentiation, by bypassing pluripotent state and consequently reducing tumorigenesis and genetic instability risks, establishment of several desired cells are feasible. In this review, we describe the pros and cons of different methods employed to directly reprogram somatic cells to iNSCs along with the progress of iNSCs applications and the future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Shahbazi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Mirakhori
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Vahid Ezzatizadeh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Baharvand
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
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34
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35
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Stem cell transplantation for Huntington's diseases. Methods 2017; 133:104-112. [PMID: 28867501 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2017.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches based on stem cells have received considerable attention as potential treatments for Huntington's disease (HD), which is a fatal, inherited neurodegenerative disorder, caused by progressive loss of GABAergic medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the striatum of the forebrain. Transplantation of stem cells or their derivatives in animal models of HD, efficiently improved functions by replacing the damaged or lost neurons. In particular, neural stem cells (NSCs) for HD treatments have been developed from various sources, such as the brain itself, the pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), and the somatic cells of the HD patients. However, the brain-derived NSCs are difficult to obtain, and the PSCs have to be differentiated into a population of the desired neuronal cells that may cause a risk of tumor formation after transplantation. In contrast, induced NSCs, derived from somatic cells as a new stem cell source for transplantation, are less likely to form tumors. Given that the stem cell transplantation strategy for treatment of HD, as a genetic disease, is to replace the dysfunctional or lost neurons, the correction of mutant genes containing the expanded CAG repeats is essential. In this review, we will describe the methods for obtaining the optimal NSCs for transplantation-based HD treatment and the differentiation conditions for the functional GABAergic MSNs as therapeutic cells. Also, we will discuss the valuable gene correction of the disease stem cells by the CRISPR/Cas9 system for HD treatment.
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36
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Xu Z, Chu X, Jiang H, Schilling H, Chen S, Feng J. Induced dopaminergic neurons: A new promise for Parkinson's disease. Redox Biol 2017; 11:606-612. [PMID: 28110217 PMCID: PMC5256671 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor symptoms that define Parkinson’s disease (PD) are caused by the selective loss of nigral dopaminergic (DA) neurons. Cell replacement therapy for PD has been focused on midbrain DA neurons derived from human fetal mesencephalic tissue, human embryonic stem cells (hESC) or human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). Recent development in the direct conversion of human fibroblasts to induced dopaminergic (iDA) neurons offers new opportunities for transplantation study and disease modeling in PD. The iDA neurons are generated directly from human fibroblasts in a short period of time, bypassing lengthy differentiation process from human pluripotent stem cells and the concern for potentially tumorigenic mitotic cells. They exhibit functional dopaminergic neurotransmission and relieve locomotor symptoms in animal models of Parkinson’s disease. In this review, we will discuss this recent development and its implications to Parkinson’s disease research and therapy. Fibroblasts can be directly converted to induced dopaminergic neurons by transcription factors. Many different types of cells can be converted to induced neurons in vitro and in vivo. Appropriate cell culture conditions enhance the direct conversion to induced neurons. The conversion to induced neurons is enhanced by G1 arrest and p53 attenuation. iDA neurons is a promising tool for PD research and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Xu
- Veterans Affairs Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, NY 14215, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA; Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Health Science, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science and Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xingkun Chu
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Health Science, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science and Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Houbo Jiang
- Veterans Affairs Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, NY 14215, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Haley Schilling
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Shengdi Chen
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Health Science, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science and Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jian Feng
- Veterans Affairs Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, NY 14215, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
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37
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Prasad A, Teh DBL, Shah Jahan FR, Manivannan J, Chua SM, All AH. Direct Conversion Through Trans-Differentiation: Efficacy and Safety. Stem Cells Dev 2016; 26:154-165. [PMID: 27796171 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2016.0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct conversion through transdifferentiation is a promising cell reprogramming approach that induces a cell lineage conversion among adult cells without passing through an intermediate pluripotent phase. However, there is a need to critically evaluate the efficacy and safety of direct conversion to establish its feasibility as a clinically viable cell reprogramming technique. This review article aims to delineate some critical constraints of direct conversion as a cellular reprogramming approach. We report the most important challenges of lineage reprogramming through direct conversion and divide them into two major sections. The first section explores the obstacles that limit the efficiency of the direct conversion process. In this study, we discuss challenges such as lack of understanding of molecular mechanism and transcriptional control of direct conversion, low proliferative capacity of converted cells, and senescence and apoptosis as critical barriers of direct conversion. The second section focuses on addressing concerns of safety of directly converted cells. We describe issues of transgene load and epigenetic memory retention along with the constraints of currently available validation tools to characterize reprogrammed cells. Each issue mentioned above is evaluated in view of their origin, implications, progress made toward their resolution and scope for development of new strategies to address the constraints of the present technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankshita Prasad
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniel Boon Loong Teh
- Department of Singapore Institute of Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fathima R Shah Jahan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
| | - Janani Manivannan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
| | - Soo Min Chua
- Department of Singapore Institute of Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore
| | - Angelo H All
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National University of Singapore , Singapore, Singapore .,4 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland.,5 Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
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38
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Van Pham P, Vu NB, Dao TTT, Le HTN, Phi LT, Phan NK. Production of endothelial progenitor cells from skin fibroblasts by direct reprogramming for clinical usages. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2016; 53:207-216. [PMID: 27778229 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-016-0106-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play an important role in angiogenesis. However, they exist in limited numbers in the human body. This study was aimed to produce EPCs, for autologous transplantation, using direct reprogramming of skin fibroblasts under GMP-compliant conditions. Fibroblasts were collected and cultured from the skin in DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with 5% activated platelet-rich plasma and 1% antibiotic-antimycotic solution. They were then transfected with mRNA ETV2 and incubated in culture medium under hypoxia (5% oxygen) for 14 d. Phenotype analysis of transfected cells confirmed that single-factor ETV2 transfection successfully reprogrammed dermal fibroblasts into functional EPCs. Our results showed that ETV2 mRNA combined with hypoxia can give rise to functional EPCs. The cells exhibited functional phenotypes similar to endothelial cells derived from umbilical cord vein; they expressed CD31 and VEGFR2, and formed capillary-like structures in vitro. Moreover, these EPCs could significantly improve hindlimb ischemia in mouse models. Although the direct conversion efficacy was low (3.12 ± 0.98%), altogether our study demonstrates that functional EPCs can be produced from fibroblasts and can be used in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuc Van Pham
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Application, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
| | - Ngoc Bich Vu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Application, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Thuy Thi-Thanh Dao
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Application, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ha Thi-Ngan Le
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Application, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Lan Thi Phi
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Application, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ngoc Kim Phan
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Application, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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39
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Xu A, Cheng L. Chemical transdifferentiation: closer to regenerative medicine. Front Med 2016; 10:152-65. [PMID: 27142989 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-016-0445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cell transdifferentiation, which directly switches one type of differentiated cells into another cell type, is more advantageous than cell reprogramming to generate pluripotent cells and differentiate them into functional cells. This process is crucial in regenerative medicine. However, the cell-converting strategies, which mainly depend on the virus-mediated expression of exogenous genes, have clinical safety concerns. Small molecules with compelling advantages are a potential alternative in manipulating cell fate conversion. In this review, we briefly retrospect the nature of cell transdifferentiation and summarize the current developments in the research of small molecules in promoting cell conversion. Particularly, we focus on the complete chemical compound-induced cell transdifferentiation, which is closer to the clinical translation in cell therapy. Despite these achievements, the mechanisms underpinning chemical transdifferentiation remain largely unknown. More importantly, identifying drugs that induce resident cell conversion in vivo to repair damaged tissue remains to be the end-goal in current regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aining Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Lin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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Tian Z, Guo F, Biswas S, Deng W. Rationale and Methodology of Reprogramming for Generation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Induced Neural Progenitor Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E594. [PMID: 27104529 PMCID: PMC4849048 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17040594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Great progress has been made regarding the capabilities to modify somatic cell fate ever since the technology for generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) was discovered in 2006. Later, induced neural progenitor cells (iNPCs) were generated from mouse and human cells, bypassing some of the concerns and risks of using iPSCs in neuroscience applications. To overcome the limitation of viral vector induced reprogramming, bioactive small molecules (SM) have been explored to enhance the efficiency of reprogramming or even replace transcription factors (TFs), making the reprogrammed cells more amenable to clinical application. The chemical induced reprogramming process is a simple process from a technical perspective, but the choice of SM at each step is vital during the procedure. The mechanisms underlying cell transdifferentiation are still poorly understood, although, several experimental data and insights have indicated the rationale of cell reprogramming. The process begins with the forced expression of specific TFs or activation/inhibition of cell signaling pathways by bioactive chemicals in defined culture condition, which initiates the further reactivation of endogenous gene program and an optimal stoichiometric expression of the endogenous pluri- or multi-potency genes, and finally leads to the birth of reprogrammed cells such as iPSCs and iNPCs. In this review, we first outline the rationale and discuss the methodology of iPSCs and iNPCs in a stepwise manner; and then we also discuss the chemical-based reprogramming of iPSCs and iNPCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuojun Tian
- Department of Neurology, the Institute of Guangzhou Respiratory Disease, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA.
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
| | - Fuzheng Guo
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
| | - Sangita Biswas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA.
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
| | - Wenbin Deng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA.
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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