Induction of Neural Progenitor-like Cells from Human Fibroblasts via a Genetic Material-free Approach

چکیده مقاله

Abstract
Background
A number of studies generated induced neural progenitor cells (iNPCs) from human fibroblasts
by viral delivering defined transcription factors. However, the potential risks associated
with gene delivery systems have limited their clinical use. We propose it would be safer
to induce neural progenitor-like cells from human adult fibroblasts via a direct non-genetic
alternative approach.
Methodology/Principal Findings
Here, we have reported that seven rounds of TAT-SOX2 protein transduction in a defined
chemical cocktail under a 3D sphere culture gradually morphed fibroblasts into neuroepithelial-
like colonies. We were able to expand these cells for up to 20 passages. These cells
could give rise to cells that expressed neurons and glia cell markers both in vitro and in vivo.
Conclusions/Significance
These resultsshow that our approach is beneficial for the genetic material-free generation
of iNPCs from human fibroblasts where small chemical molecules can provide a valuable,
viable strategy to boost and improve induction in a 3D sphere culture.