Researchers from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati and Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore have jointly developed a method to transform regular human skin cells into pluripotent stem cells. These induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be programmed to differentiate into various adult cell types, offering potential for regenerative medicine. The technique involves introducing specific genes into skin cells using a safe, integration-free approach. These iPSCs possess the advantage of matching the genetic makeup of the original cells and could be used in therapies for ailments such as diabetes, leukaemia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Prelims pointer
- Pluripotent Stem Cells: Cells that have the potential to develop into various types of mature cells in the body, offering promise for tissue regeneration and therapeutic applications.
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs): Adult cells that are reprogrammed to revert to a pluripotent state, enabling them to differentiate into different cell types, avoiding the ethical concerns associated with embryonic stem cells.
- Regenerative Medicine: A field of medicine focused on replacing or regenerating damaged or diseased tissues and organs through techniques like stem cell therapy.
- Beta Islet Cells: Cells responsible for producing insulin in the pancreas. Generating beta islet cells from iPSCs holds potential for treating diabetes.
- Department of Health Research-Indian Council of Medical Research (DHR-ICMR): Government initiatives in India supporting stem cell research and regenerative medicine.
