Conversion of mouse fibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cells using small molecule treatments

Gyuman Park, Byung Sun Yoon, Yoon Sik Kim, Seung Cheol Choi, Jai Hee Moon, Suhyun Kwon, Jihye Hwang, Wonjin Yun, Jong Ho Kim, Chi Yeon Park, Do Sun Lim, Yang In Kim, Chil Hwan Oh, Seungkwon You

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

29 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The possibility of controlling cell fates by overexpressing specific transcription factors has led to numerous studies in stem cell research. Small molecules can be used, instead of transcription factors, to induce the de-differentiation of somatic cells or to induce pluripotent cells (iPSCs). Here we reported that combinations of small molecules could convert mouse fibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cell without requiring transcription factor expression. Treatment with specific combinations of small molecules that are enhancer for iPSC induction converted mouse fibroblasts into spontaneously contracting, cardiac troponin T-positive, cardiomyocyte-like cells. We specifically identified five small molecules that can induce mouse fibroblasts to form these cardiomyocyte-like cells. These cells are similar to primary cardiomyocytes in terms of marker gene expression, epigenetic status of cardiac-specific genes, and subcellular structure. Our findings indicate that lineage conversion can be induced not only by transcription factors, but also by small molecules.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)201-212
Number of pages12
JournalBiomaterials
Volume54
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2015 Jun 1

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2015 Elsevier Ltd.

Keywords

  • Induced cardiomyocyte-like cells
  • Lineage conversion
  • Mouse fibroblasts
  • Small molecule

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biophysics
  • Bioengineering
  • Ceramics and Composites
  • Biomaterials
  • Mechanics of Materials

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