Induced pluripotent stem cells are also dangerous :(
It is known that embryonic stem cells are capable of giving rise to almost all types of cells and theoretically they can be used to repair any damage to the body. However, in addition to the ethical problems associated with obtaining them, it turned out that when cultured in laboratory conditions, chromosomal changes occur in these cells that can stimulate the growth of malignant tumors. This fact closed the way for embryonic cells to clinical practice.
However, they were soon replaced by induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), obtained from adult cells of the body using a "reprogramming" process developed by Japanese scientists. In addition to the proven stability in culture, such cells have another important advantage: they can be isolated from the patient's own body, which eliminates the possibility of developing a rejection reaction. However, it is quite possible that the road to the clinic will soon be closed for these promising candidates.
Using a new method developed by Israeli scientists that detects chromosomal abnormalities by registering changes in gene activity, researchers have demonstrated that induced pluripotent stem cells also undergo dangerous chromosomal changes during prolonged cultivation. The press release “Hebrew University researchers discover expanded role for cancer-causing gene, paving way for new therapeutic investigation" is published on the website of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
In addition to the cell lines created in their laboratory, the researchers analyzed more than 100 lines with which 18 independent laboratories located in different countries of the world work. It turned out that with prolonged cultivation, an additional (third) copy of the 12th chromosome appears in such cells. This leads to increased expression of the Vav1 oncogene localized on this chromosome and significantly increases the risk of malignancy of such cells.
The phenomenon identified by the authors is not an accident, but a convincingly proven pattern. Unfortunately, it can permanently suspend the rapid progress in the field of cellular medicine, and those hoping for a "panacea" in the form of stem cells will have to wait for the next breakthrough.
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru based on the materials of CNews R&D
30.11.2010