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Updated: May 16, 2026
09:07
Chemical Reversion of Conventional Human Pluripotent Stem Cells to a Naïve-like State with Improved Multilineage Differentiation Potency
Published on: June 10, 2018
Genetic and epigenetic instability in human pluripotent stem cells
1Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Jette, Brussels, Belgium.
Human Reproduction Update
|December 11, 2012
Summary
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) frequently acquire genetic and epigenetic changes during culture. These alterations can lead to cell adaptation, potentially resulting in malignant transformation, necessitating integrity checks for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Stem Cell Biology
- Genetics
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) exhibit increasing evidence of epigenetic and genetic instability during in vitro culture.
- Culture-induced alterations can significantly impact hPSC characteristics and functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of culture-induced epigenetic and genetic alterations in hPSCs.
- To examine the phenotypic consequences of these alterations.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search using keywords related to hPSCs, genetic integrity, and chromosomal abnormalities.
- Inclusion of English-language studies focused on (epi)genomic integrity.
- Cross-referencing for additional relevant manuscripts.
Main Results:
- Numerous epigenetic and genetic aberrations are identified in hPSCs.
- Recurrent alterations confer a selective growth advantage, leading to overgrowth of abnormal, culture-adapted cells.
- Altered cells show decreased differentiation and increased proliferation, suggesting potential pre-malignant transformation.
Conclusions:
- The high frequency of (epi)genetic alterations and altered phenotypes necessitates strict control of hPSC integrity.
- Ensuring (epi)genetic integrity is crucial before any clinical applications of hPSCs.
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