Stem Cells

Cells from frozen human blood samples can be reprogrammed to an embryonic stem-cell-like state, according to Whitehead Institute researchers. These cells can be multiplied and used to study the genetic and molecular mechanisms of blood disorders and other diseases.

Whitehead Institute researchers have converted established human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and human embryonic stem (ES) cells to a base state of greater pluripotency. 

Wounds trigger regeneration in planaria, a flatworm commonly studied for its regenerative capabilities. Until now, no molecular connection between wounding and the onset of the regeneration of an entire head or tail in planaria had been identified.

Cells from mice created using genetically reprogrammed cells can be triggered via drug to enter an embryonic stem-cell-like state.

Understanding the role of EMT in adult stem cell creation may lead toward the development of healthy stem cells for regenerative medicine and provide drug targets for cancer.

Fully differentiated cells can be reprogrammed to induced pluripotent stem (IPS) cells.

Dopamine-producing neurons transplanted into adult rat brains treat behavioral symptoms related to low dopamine levels.

Advance offers promise for bone marrow transplants, gene therapy.

This is the first proof of principle for using adult cells reprogrammed to an embryonic-stem-cell-like state, combined with gene and cell therapy, for successful disease treatment in mice.

Inhibiting one gene resulted in animals making a head instead of a tail at the site of the wound.