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Published on: June 3, 2018
Chemical Reprogramming of Fibroblasts to Functional Mammary Epithelial Cells via a Single BMP Inhibitor.
Quanhui Liu1, Dandan Zhang2, Guodong Wang2
1College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
Cell Biology International
|June 5, 2026
Summary
A novel chemical compound, LDN193189, directly reprograms goat fibroblasts into functional mammary epithelial cells (CiMECs) in just 8 days. These CiMECs exhibit milk production and regenerative potential, offering new avenues for regenerative medicine.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Direct lineage reprogramming is a promising non-genetic method for somatic cell generation.
- Mammary epithelial cells are crucial for milk production and mammary gland development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish an efficient chemical reprogramming method for generating functional mammary epithelial cells.
- To investigate the reprogramming trajectory and functional characteristics of chemically induced mammary epithelial cells (CiMECs).
Main Methods:
- Utilized LDN193189, a small molecule inhibitor of the BMP pathway, for direct reprogramming of goat ear fibroblasts.
- Characterized CiMECs using morphology, marker expression (KRTs, CD49f, EpCAM), secretory function assays, and single-cell RNA sequencing.
- Assessed in vitro self-assembly and in vivo transplantation in nude mice.
Main Results:
- Successfully reprogrammed fibroblasts into CiMECs within 8 days.
- CiMECs displayed epithelial morphology, expressed key mammary markers, and exhibited secretory functions (lipid droplets, milk protein production).
- Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed a stepwise reprogramming process involving MET and intermediate states, activating mammary development pathways.
- CiMECs formed 3D mammary-like structures in vitro and showed regenerative potential in vivo.
Conclusions:
- A simple, chemically defined platform efficiently generates functional mammary epithelial cells from somatic cells.
- This method provides a valuable model for studying mammary development and offers potential for regenerative medicine and bioreactor applications.
