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Updated: May 31, 2026
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Isolation of Adult Human Dermal Fibroblasts from Abdominal Skin and Generation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Using a Non-Integrating Method
Published on: January 19, 2020
Pluripotent stem cells and reprogrammed cells in farm animals.
Monika Nowak-Imialek1, Wilfried Kues, Joseph W Carnwath
1Institute of Farm Animal Genetics (FLI), Biotechnology, Mariensee, 31535 Neustadt, Germany.
Summary
This review explores pluripotent stem cells in domestic animals, focusing on pigs as models for stem cell therapies. Current methods aim to generate germ line-competent stem cells for research and clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Stem cell biology
- Comparative medicine
- Reproductive biology
Background:
- Pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into all cell types of an organism.
- While established in rodents, germ line contribution of human pluripotent cells is ethically restricted.
- Domestic animals, especially pigs, serve as valuable models for studying stem cell therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of derivation and maintenance of pluripotent stem cells in domestic animals.
- To highlight the potential of domestic animals, particularly pigs, for stem cell research.
- To discuss reprogramming technologies for generating germ line-competent stem cells.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on pluripotent stem cell derivation in domestic animals.
- Analysis of various reprogramming technologies: somatic cell nuclear transfer, cell fusion, cell extracts, in vitro conversion, and factor transduction.
- Evaluation of stem cell potential for germ line contribution.
Main Results:
- Embryonic stem-like cells have been derived from domestic animals but lack germ line contribution.
- Domestic pigs are identified as suitable large animal models for stem cell therapy research.
- Multiple reprogramming techniques are being investigated to achieve germ line competency.
Conclusions:
- Derivation of true pluripotent, germ line-competent stem cells from domestic animals remains a challenge.
- Further research is needed to overcome barriers in generating clinically applicable stem cells from domestic animals.
- Domestic animals offer a promising platform for advancing stem cell therapies relevant to human medicine.
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