Revealing genetic mutations affecting the safety of induced pluripotent stem cells

A groundbreaking study published in *Nature Communications* has unveiled new insights into the safety of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells). The research, conducted by a collaborative team led by Professor Tian Jianhui from China Agricultural University, Professor Gao Shaorong from Tongji University, and researcher Cai Jun from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlights how gene mutations that occur during the reprogramming process can significantly reduce the developmental potential of iPS cells. This discovery offers critical information for future safety assessments in regenerative medicine and biotechnology. Animal cloning has long been a key method for somatic cell reprogramming. Since the famous cloned sheep "Dolly" was born in 1996, this field has gained significant attention in animal science. In 2006, Japanese scientist Shinya Yamanaka introduced a revolutionary technique that used viral vectors to deliver four key transcription factors into adult cells, transforming them into iPS cells—cells with properties similar to embryonic stem cells. This breakthrough earned Yamanaka the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012, as it opened new avenues for studying cellular fate and preserving human and animal genetic resources. However, concerns remain about whether iPS cells carry genetic mutations and how these might affect their quality and long-term safety. These issues are crucial not only for understanding cell behavior but also for ensuring the safe application of iPS cells in medical and agricultural fields. Last year, Professor Tian's team discovered that the methylation level of an imprinted gene, Zrsr1, plays a vital role in determining the quality of iPS cells. Building on this, the researchers successfully generated six consecutive generations of iPS mice through repeated induction. This model allowed them to track gene mutations and assess the safety of iPS cells during the reprogramming process. Their findings revealed that after multiple rounds of reprogramming, the viability of the mice gradually declined, eventually leading to death. Further analysis showed that the process introduced numerous single nucleotide variants (SNVs), some of which were passed on to the germ line, contributing to the reduced survival rates. This is the first time such a safety risk has been demonstrated in iPS cells, offering a solid foundation for future safety evaluations. The study was co-authored by Professor Tian Jianhui from the College of Animal Science and Technology at China Agricultural University, Professor Gao Shaorong from Tongji University, and researcher Cai Jun from the Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Dr. Gao Shuai, Dr. Zheng Caihong, and Dr. Changgang served as the co-first authors of the paper. (Source: China Agricultural University)

Stainless Steel Garden Pot

Outdoor Plant Container,Stainless Steel Planter,Durable Plant Vessel,Stylish Outdoor Plant Pot,High-Quality Gardening Container

Jiangmen Xinweijie Stainless Steel Products Co., Ltd. , https://www.xxdkitchenware.com