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Exploring the mechanisms of cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation via intercellular communication
1Department of Mathematics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200436, China.
Physical Review. E
|August 16, 2020
Summary
Intercellular communication enables cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation. This study reveals that cells can achieve cell type transitions through intercellular interactions when coupling intensity is optimal, impacting multicellular development.
Area of Science:
- Systems Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Previous research explored cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation mechanisms focusing on single-cell gene regulation, stochastic fluctuations, or chemical induction.
- Intercellular communication is vital for cell fate decisions in multicellular organisms but often overlooked in reprogramming studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation mediated by intercellular communication.
- To analyze the influence of coupling intensity on cell reprogramming dynamics in a two-cell system.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a two-gene circuit model with mutual inhibition and self-activation.
- Introduced intercellular communication via a signaling molecule to couple gene circuits.
- Analyzed system dynamics, stability, and bifurcation concerning coupling intensity and cell number.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that intercellular interaction can drive cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation.
- Identified that opportune coupling intensity is critical for successful cell type transitions.
- Showcased the impact of coupling intensity variations with cell number on these processes.
Conclusions:
- Intercellular communication is a significant factor in cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation.
- Optimal coupling intensity facilitates cell type transitions, offering insights into multicellular organism development.
- This research expands understanding of cell fate determination through cell-cell signaling.
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