Genetic reprogramming for making induced pluripotent stem cells; a revolution

Introduction Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSC) technology is breakthrough in stem cells research/therapy. Genetic Reprogramming (GR) of somatic cells to diverse types of differentiated cells is one of its branches. Drugs discovery, making a platform for diseases research, and also cell replacement therapy is the main applications of this technology. This technology is also a context for new insights including Regenerative Medicine (RM) and Personalized Medicine (PM). IPSCs are a source for disease modeling and treatment of many diseases because of their potential of differentiating to any cell types. According to above-mentioned knowledge on IPSCs and their applications, it was important to conduct a review in this field of study. Methods We have searched the PubMed databases comprehensively and accurately to find peer-reviewed articles concerning the application of iPSCs in diseases. Results: Recently, GR and RM have been applied in different diseases. Although this technology has a bright future in our minds, there are also some serious challenges in our road to successive use of this technology, including the low efficiency of iPSCs production and integrating the newly generated cells into complex cellular networks. Conclusion In this review, we discussed a brief history of IPSCs production using GR method. We pointed to advantages and also disadvantages of this technology with an unbiased perspective. Finally, we expressed current and future challenges facing this technology. There is very high probability that this technology is capable of making a great revolution in RM and PM in the future.

Keywords:

Induced pluripotent stem cells , Genetic reprogramming , Personalized medicine , Regenerative medicine