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Updated: May 13, 2026
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Published on: February 8, 2013
Rare somatic cells from human breast tissue exhibit extensive lineage plasticity
Somdutta Roy1, Philippe Gascard, Nancy Dumont
1Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143-0511, USA.
Summary
Researchers discovered rare human breast cells with extensive plasticity, capable of differentiating into all three germ layers. These cells express key stem cell markers but are mortal, offering potential for regenerative medicine applications.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Stem Cell Research
Background:
- p16(INK4a)/cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) is a critical determinant in cellular plasticity.
- Identifying cells with extensive lineage plasticity is crucial for understanding development and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and isolate rare human cells exhibiting extensive lineage plasticity.
- To characterize the properties and differentiation potential of these plastic somatic cells.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of rare cells from healthy human breast tissue using identified cell surface markers.
- Analysis of plasticity marker expression (OCT3/4, SOX2, NANOG).
- In vitro, in vivo, and teratoma assays to assess differentiation capacity.
Main Results:
- Successfully isolated rare human breast cells with extensive lineage plasticity.
- These cells express OCT3/4, SOX2, and NANOG at levels comparable to human embryonic stem cells.
- Demonstrated differentiation into ectodermal, endodermal, and mesodermal derivatives.
- Characterized as mortal, with low telomerase activity and finite proliferation before G1 arrest.
Conclusions:
- Identified a novel subpopulation of human endogenous plastic somatic cells with significant differentiation potential.
- These cells represent a unique model for studying cellular plasticity and environmental programming.
- Potential applications in regenerative medicine due to their multipotent differentiation capacity.
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