Direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes

Stem Cell Research & Therapy

Yueqiu Chen¹  Zhen-Ao Zhao¹  Zhenya Shen¹  Ziying Yang¹ 

[1] Institute for Cardiovascular Science & Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of The First Affiliated Hospital, Soochow University;

关键词: Direct reprogramming;    Fibroblast;    Cardiomyocyte;    Transcription factor;    MicroRNA;    Small molecule;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s13287-017-0569-3

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in the world. The limited regenerative capacity of adult cardiomyocytes is the major barrier for heart regeneration. After myocardial infarction, myofibroblasts are the dominant cell type in the infarct zone. Therefore, it is a good idea to reprogram terminally differentiated myofibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cells directly, providing a good strategy to simultaneously reduce scar tissue and increase functional cardiomyocytes. Transcription factors were first identified to reprogram myofibroblasts into cardiomyocytes. Thereafter, microRNAs and/or small molecules showed great potential to optimize the reprogramming process. Here, we systemically summarize and compare the major progress in directed cardiac reprogramming including transcription factors and miRNAs, especially the small molecules. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges needed to be overcome to apply this strategy clinically.

【 授权许可】

Unknown