Methods for Reprogramming adult somatic cells to improve bone marrow and peripheral blood derived stem and progenitor cells

Caritas St. Elizabeth's Medical Center
posted on 02/13/2009

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Background: A number of clinical trials using autogogous, bone marrow and peripheral blood derived stem/progenitor cells have been completed or are currently underway for post-infarct myocardial repair. Certain potential limitations of autologous BM or peripheral blood derived cells have also been identified. Risk factors for coronary artery disease are reported to be associated with a reduced number and impaired function of endothelial progenitor cells in the peripheral blood of patients. It is therefore imperative to make efforts towards developing and refining additional sources of autologous cells and test their therapeutic potential in the tissue repair and regeneration.

Advantages: One important aspect of this invention is that it would provide a ready supply of stem-like cells that could be generated from individual patients, obviating ethical concerns and also circumventing issues regarding immune rejection, the “stem” cells generated from each individual would be genetically identical to the donor/recipient. Thus, autologous cells could be generated for use in any tissue repair indication, including heart attack congestive heart failure, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, etc