Induced pluripotent stem cells

Definition

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a type of stem cell that can be generated directly from adult cells through the introduction of specific genes. They possess the unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, similar to embryonic stem cells, which makes them valuable for research and potential therapeutic applications. iPSCs offer an innovative way to create patient-specific cells for drug testing and disease modeling while bypassing ethical concerns associated with embryonic stem cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. iPSCs are created by reprogramming somatic cells, such as skin or blood cells, through the introduction of four transcription factors: Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc.
2. Unlike embryonic stem cells, iPSCs do not involve the destruction of embryos, making them a more ethically acceptable option for research.
3. iPSCs can be derived from various cell types, allowing for personalized medicine approaches where patient-specific cells are used for tailored treatments.
4. Research using iPSCs has shown promise in regenerative medicine, including potential applications in treating conditions like Parkinson's disease and spinal cord injuries.
5. The technology behind iPSCs has accelerated drug discovery by enabling researchers to create disease models that closely mimic human conditions.

Review Questions

• How do induced pluripotent stem cells differ from embryonic stem cells in terms of their source and ethical considerations?
  • Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) differ from embryonic stem cells primarily in their source. iPSCs are derived from adult somatic cells that have been reprogrammed to an embryonic-like state, while embryonic stem cells are obtained from embryos. This distinction leads to fewer ethical concerns surrounding iPSCs since they do not involve the destruction of embryos, making them a more acceptable alternative for research and potential therapies.
• Discuss the implications of using induced pluripotent stem cells in personalized medicine and drug discovery.
  • Using induced pluripotent stem cells in personalized medicine allows for the development of patient-specific therapies, which can lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects. Since iPSCs can be generated from a patient's own cells, they provide a unique model for understanding individual disease mechanisms and responses to treatments. In drug discovery, iPSCs enable researchers to create accurate disease models that mimic human conditions, facilitating the screening of potential drugs and accelerating the development of new therapies tailored to specific patient needs.
• Evaluate the future potential of induced pluripotent stem cells in regenerative medicine and identify any challenges that may hinder their application.
  • The future potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in regenerative medicine is significant, as they hold promise for treating a wide range of diseases and injuries by regenerating damaged tissues or organs. However, challenges remain, such as ensuring the safety and efficacy of iPSC-derived therapies. Concerns about tumorigenicity, immune rejection, and the long-term stability of differentiated cell types must be addressed before widespread clinical application can occur. Continued research is essential to overcome these barriers and fully harness the capabilities of iPSCs in regenerative medicine.

Related terms

Pluripotency: The ability of a stem cell to differentiate into almost any cell type in the body, except for extra-embryonic tissues.

Somatic Cell Reprogramming: The process of converting specialized adult cells back into a stem cell-like state by introducing specific transcription factors.

Tissue Engineering:

An interdisciplinary field that aims to develop biological substitutes to restore, maintain, or improve tissue function using cells, biomaterials, and growth factors.