Stem cell reprogramming: generation of patient-specific stem cells by somatic cell nuclear reprogramming

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are a very attractive supply in medicine, in particular as a human model system in drug discovery and developmental biology, but could also be used in cell replacement therapy. We are learning about molecular signaling pathways from several animal models, some of which are directly applicable to human beings. However, several pathways are unique for human cells and therefore culture of human tissue is an important tool to decipher molecular events in the human system. Human embryonic stem cells have several advantages including their capacity to multiply indefinitely in tissue culture and their ability to differentiate into any cell type of the body. Today, technology exists for producing embryonic stem cells (ESCs) containing patient-specific genome. These cells can multiply in tissue culture and upon external signals be induced to differentiate into any cell type of interest. In this way, patient-specific dopamine producing nerve cells can be transplanted to patients suffering from Parkinson's disease or patient-specific skin cells can be grafted in individuals suffering from melanoma cancer. Such cells could also provide a unique model system for patient-specific drug screening. This review describes historical breakthroughs underlying these advances and some of the technical obstacles to overcome.

Section editor:Peter Sartipy – Cellartis AB, Göteborg, Sweden