Semantron 24 Summer 2024

iPSCs

involves direct reprogramming of somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells, which can be a much faster process than traditional methods of iPSC generation however requires specialist equipment to achieve properly. 37 This method also has a lower risk of introducing genetic aberrations into the generated iPSCs, which can be a concern with other generation techniques. 38 Finally, oocyte reprogramming provides a much longer period of time during which the cell can remain pluripotent, which makes it more suitable for applications in regenerative medicine. In brief, oocyte reprogramming has a lower chance of genetic aberrations, as well as a longer period of pluripotency. As such, it is an attractive option for generating iPSCs. 39 One of the main disadvantages of oocyte reprogramming is the technical complexity of the process, which requires a thorough understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved. This can make it difficult for researchers who are not familiar with the technique to successfully generate iPSCs using this method. 40 Another limitation of oocyte reprogramming is the specialized equipment required for the process. This can be costly and difficult to obtain, particularly for researchers working in resource- poor settings. Additionally, the need for specialized equipment can make the process of oocyte reprogramming more time-consuming when compared to other methods of iPSC generation when is it is not known how to be used most effectively. 41 This can limit the range of applications of oocyte reprogramming in regenerative medicine and biopharmaceutical research. 42 One topic that is often in debate around oocyte reprogramming is the fact that it requires germ line cells i.e. developing eggs. This means that some disapprove of this due to the use of human cells that could be used to create a life. I am going to disregard this as the majority view is that the oocyte is not a life. It is a human cell as a skin cell is. Therefore, it may be considered a drawback by some, but I and many other experts do not.

The protein delivery method of iPSC generation

The process of protein-induced iPSC generation involves the interaction of reprogramming proteins with specific target genes that regulate pluripotency. The reprogramming proteins, such as Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc, bind to the regulatory regions of these target genes and activate their expression. This process leads to the remodelling of the chromatin structure and the activation of the pluripotency network. The reprogramming proteins also suppress the expression of genes that maintain the differentiated state of the somatic cells. Together, these molecular events lead to the activation of the 37 Miyamoto K. (2019). Various nuclear reprogramming systems using egg and oocyte materials. The Journal of reproduction and development , 65 (3), 203 – 208. 38 Shafqat, A., Kashir, J., Alsalameh, S., Alkattan, K., & Yaqinuddin, A. (2022). Fertilization, Oocyte Activation, Calcium Release and Epigenetic Remodelling: Lessons From Cancer Models. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 10 . 39 Moradi, S., Mahdiza deh, H., Šarić, T., Kim, J., Harati, J., Shahsavarani, H., Greber, B., & Moore, J.B. (2019). Research and therapy with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs): social, legal, and ethical considerations. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 10 . 40 Gonzãlez, F., Boué, S., & Belmonte, J.C. (2011). Methods for making induced pluripotent stem cells: reprogramming à la carte. Nature Reviews Genetics, 12 , 231-242. 41 Ibarretxe, G., Álvarez, A., Cañavate, M., Hilario, E., Aurrekoetxea, M., & Unda, F. (2012). Cell Reprogramming, IPS Limitations, and Overcoming Strategies in Dental Bioengineering. Stem Cells International, 2012 . 42 Moradi, S., Mahdizadeh, H., Šarić, T., Kim, J., Harati, J., Shahsavarani, H., Greber, B., & Moore, J.B. (2019). Research and therapy with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs): social, legal, and ethical considerations. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 10 .

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