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Updated: May 16, 2026
12:47
Directed Differentiation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells towards T Lymphocytes
Published on: May 14, 2012
Pluripotent stem cells: immune to the immune system?
Jeremy I Pearl1, Leslie S Kean, Mark M Davis
1Department of Medicine and Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
Science Translational Medicine
|December 18, 2012
Summary
Human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells are not immune privileged and can be rejected. Understanding stem cell immunogenicity is crucial for upcoming clinical trials using these regenerative medicine sources.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) were initially considered immune privileged.
- Recent findings indicate hESCs are susceptible to immune recognition.
- Autologous human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) may also face immune rejection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To definitively understand the immunogenicity of hESCs and iPSCs.
- To address critical questions before clinical applications of stem cells.
Main Methods:
- This study reviews existing literature on stem cell immunogenicity.
- Analysis of immune responses to hESCs and iPSCs.
- Evaluation of factors contributing to potential immune rejection.
Main Results:
- hESCs are immunogenic and can be recognized by the immune system.
- Autologous iPSCs are also potential targets for immune rejection.
- The immunogenicity of these stem cells poses a challenge for transplantation.
Conclusions:
- A thorough understanding of stem cell immunogenicity is essential.
- Further research is needed to overcome immune barriers for stem cell therapies.
- Addressing immunogenicity is critical for the success of future clinical trials.
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