Genes Encoding Transcription Factor for iPS

• OCT4 is a key regulator of stem cell pluripotency. Reduced OCT4 expression leads to differentiation. It is highly expressed in pluripotent cells early embryo on in embryonic development.

• SOX2 plays an important role in maintaining pluripotency. Reduced SOX2 induces differentiation.

• KLF4 is involved in a wide range of cellular processes including development, proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Simultaneous reduction causes differentiation.

• c-MYC has important functions in proliferation, differentiation, and cell growth.

These four genes are introduced into somatic cells, usually by retroviral vectors. Once these genes are integrated into the somatic cell genome, they are expressed in transcription factor proteins. The transcription factors will induce the expression of endogenous genes such as NANOG, SOX2 and OCT4, which are important for pluripotency characteristics.