Open AccessReprogramming mediated by stem cell fusion
Author(s) -
Ambrosi Dominic J.,
Rasmussen Theodore P.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
journal of cellular and molecular medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.44
H-Index - 130
eISSN - 1582-4934
pISSN - 1582-1838
DOI - 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2005.tb00358.x
Subject(s) - reprogramming , somatic cell , biology , embryonic stem cell , stem cell , microbiology and biotechnology , somatic cell nuclear transfer , cell potency , epigenetics , cellular differentiation , cell fusion , germline , induced pluripotent stem cell , genetics , cell , embryo , embryogenesis , gene , blastocyst
Advances in mammalian cloning prove that somatic nuclei can be reprogrammed to a state of totipotency by transfer into oocytes. An alternative approach to reprogram the somatic genome involves the creation of hybrids between somatic cells and other cells that contain reprogramming activities. Potential fusion partners with reprogramming activities include embryonic stem cells, embryonic germ cells, embryonal carcinoma cells, and even differentiated cells. Recent advances in fusion‐mediated reprogramming are discussed from the standpoints of the developmental potency of hydrid cells, genetic and epigenetic correlates of reprogramming, and other aspects involved in the reprogramming process. In addition, the utility of fusion‐mediated reprogramming for future cell‐based therapies is discussed.