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Lgr6-expressing functional nail stem-like cells differentiated from human-induced pluripotent stem cells
Yukino Inomata1,2, Nano Kawatani1,2, Hiromi Yamashita1
1Innovative Regenerative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata city, Osaka, Japan.
Researchers successfully differentiated nail stem-like cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using digit organoids. This breakthrough offers potential for nail repair and fingertip regeneration therapies.
Area of Science:
- Stem cell biology
- Developmental biology
- Regenerative medicine
Background:
- Nails are crucial for hand and foot function.
- Nail matrix stem cells produce nails and may aid fingertip regeneration.
- Chemotherapy can impair nail growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate nail stem (NS)-like cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).
- To trace molecular processes during limb development for nail formation.
- To establish a method for potential nail repair and fingertip regeneration therapies.
Main Methods:
- Differentiation of NS-like cells from human iPSCs via digit organoids.
- Stepwise stimulation and molecular process tracing during limb development.
- Comprehensive mRNA sequencing and Lgr6-reporter human iPSC development.
Main Results:
- Digit organoid gene expression matched human finger development.
- Differentiated NS-like cells expressed Lgr6, KRT17, and KRT81, key nail components.
- Lgr6-reporter iPSC-derived cells produced nail proteins after transplantation.
Conclusions:
- First report of NS-like cell differentiation from human iPSCs.
- Developed a method for generating nail stem-like cells.
- Potential for drug discovery in nail repair and fingertip regeneration.
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