iPSCs-induced cellular reprogramming

Recent findings in nuclear reprogramming and induced pluripotency have undermined the long-lasting dogma of irreversibility of cellular differentiation, senescence and aging. They leave little doubt that cellular aging is associated with epigenetic rather than genetic modifications. Most importantly, the age-associated alterations could be “erased” by activation of few transcription factors or cocktails of small molecules. Changes occurring in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are typical for cellular rejuvenation resulting in enhanced DNA repair, genome integrity, telomere elongation, metabolic remodeling, etc. iPSCs could be derived from somatic cells of any type and age, centenarians included. Induced pluripotency allows receiving autologous, embryonic stem-like cells by using practically inexhaustible pool of somatic cells, thus opening unprecedented opportunities in regenerative, reproductive and anti-aging medicine. However, only further research will show if induced pluripotency is a reliable anti-aging intervention or it is another episode of failed hopes, so many in the gerontological history.