Reprogramming
Reprogramming is the process of resetting the genetic information of a cell to transform one type of cell into another. This process can either revert differentiated cells to a less differentiated state similar to stem cells or directly convert them into different cell types. Stem cells possess the ability to differentiate into various cell types, and this characteristic can be utilized to treat damaged tissues or for disease research.
There are mainly two methods of reprogramming:
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Generation: This method transforms differentiated mature cells (e.g., skin cells) into induced pluripotent stem cells. iPSCs share similar characteristics with embryonic stem cells, including the ability to differentiate into any cell type. This transformation is achieved by introducing specific genes into the cells to change their genetic programming.
Direct Cell Conversion (or Transdifferentiation): This method involves the direct transformation of one type of differentiated cell into another type of differentiated cell. For example, skin cells can be directly converted into nerve cells.
Direct cell conversion requires the selection of specific conversion factors (genes or proteins) necessary for cell transformation and their introduction into the cells. This can be done using viral vectors, plasmids, mRNA injection, or CRISPR technology to directly deliver these factors to the cells. Once inside, these factors become activated and reprogram the cell's genetic makeup, initiating the differentiation process into a new cell type.