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A Few Days Old Embryo |
Creating stem cells similar to embryonic cells from adult cells will help avoid many ethical issues. A Japanese researcher at Kyoto University claims to have found a relatively simple solution to convert mouse skin cells into stem cells of quality comparable to embryonic cells.
Dr. Shinya Yamanaka and his colleagues isolated four key genes responsible for imparting “stemness” to embryonic cells. To achieve this, they used 24 components and employed a selection method by injecting various gene mixtures into the adult mouse cells. Ultimately, the four genes injected together transformed the mature cells into cells capable of differentiating into various tissues.
Dr. Yamanaka’s research will be applied to human cells to test if similar factors work. Further studies will aim to create stem cells without the need to create or destroy embryos.
T.D
