Somatic cell reprogramming into stem cells: approaches, mechanisms, and therapeutic applications
Zhuo-Er Liao1, Zuping He1,2
1Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Basic Medicine, Changsha 410013, China.
Asian Journal of Andrology
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Somatic cell reprogramming reverses cell fate, creating functional stem cells for regenerative medicine. This review covers methods, epigenetic mechanisms, and applications in treating diseases like diabetes and infertility.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Epigenetics
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Somatic cell reprogramming reverses differentiated cell fates by altering epigenetic and gene expression.
- This technology is crucial for generating sufficient cells for regenerative and reproductive medicine.
- Recent advancements include reprogramming Sertoli cells, fibroblasts, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells into functional stem cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review core cell reprogramming methods and their optimization.
- To discuss epigenetic remodeling mechanisms involved in somatic cell reprogramming.
- To explore current challenges and future perspectives in the field of cell reprogramming.
Main Methods:
- Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT)
- Transcription factor-induced reprogramming
- Chemical reprogramming
- CRISPR/Cas-based reprogramming
Main Results:
- Epigenetic remodeling involves chromatin accessibility, DNA demethylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA regulation.
- Stem cells derived from somatic cells show promise in treating infertility, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and CAR-T immunotherapy.
- Understanding reprogramming is vital for advancing cell therapy and tissue engineering.
Conclusions:
- Somatic cell reprogramming is a powerful tool for generating functional stem cells.
- Continued research into reprogramming mechanisms and applications will drive progress in regenerative medicine.
- Addressing cell maturity, heterogeneity, and safety is key for successful therapeutic applications.
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