Transdifferentiation of Somatic Cells Using mRNA

Cell reprogramming, also known as cell dedifferentiation, is a process in which differentiated adult cells are transformed back into pluripotent cells. Although cellular reprogramming has become popular for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), the reprogramming process is quite laborious. As an alternative approach, direct transdifferentiation enables the conversion of adult somatic cells to other types of cells without undergoing an intermediate state of stem cells (iPSC generation). Therefore, direct transdifferentiation is simpler than reprogramming despite a narrow range of target cell types and the low transforming efficiency. Similar to iPSC-mediated differentiation, transdifferentiation can be achieved by intracellular expression of specific transcription factors by mRNA transfection. Creative Biogene is a forward-looking research institute as well as a leading custom service provider in the field of mRNA-based cellular engineering and reprogramming. Our services are supported by both experienced experts and the latest advanced technologies. We are now proud to offer somatic cell transdifferentiation services using synthetic mRNA. With a focus on the combined use of different cell types and specific transcription factors, we are able to achieve the conversion of adult human fibroblasts into several lineages, including neural precursor cells, cardiomyocytes, and insulin-secreting cells.

Advantages of direct transdifferentiation

Direct transdifferentiation or conversion is a process in which one cell type is directly converted transformation into another type of cells without passage through a pluripotent intermediate. Direct transdifferentiation is an attractive source for cells, especially for valuable but unavailable cells, and widely used for basic research, pharmaceutical research, cell therapy, and so on. Compared to embryonic or iPSC directed differentiation (the more established methods of cellular derivation), direct reprogramming shows several advantages, including

• Lack of tumorigenic risk.
• Fast transformation rate.
• Repair of injured tissues by in vivo reprogramming.

Transdifferentiation of somatic cells using synthetically modified mRNA in Creative Biogene

With years of experience in the area of mRNA-based cellular programming and reprogramming, we have the capability to convert adult human fibroblasts into a series of lineages using synthetically modified mRNAs, such as neural precursor cells, cardiomyocytes, and insulin-secreting cells, but not limited to them. Synthetically modified mRNA presents a clinically suitable gene delivery system, having the benefit of being non-immunogenic and stable. With the help of nonviral nucleic acid delivery methods, we have efficiently delivered mRNA and expressed transcription factors in adult human fibroblasts. Our mRNA-based transdifferentiation of human fibroblasts has been proved to be high co-transfection efficiency and cell viability.

Usually, our services include four steps. First, selection of defined transcription factors according to specific cell types. Second, production of synthetically modified mRNAs. During the process, each DNA template should be sequence confirmed and band-purified. Moreover, the quality of synthetic mRNA should be thoroughly checked. Third, performance strictly daily mRNA transfection of adult human fibroblasts with proper transfection methods and reagents. Fourth, confirmation of transdifferentiation through identification of cellular specific marker genes, involving the use of immunostaining, qPCR, and RNA sequencing.

Production and transfection of synthetically modified mRNAs.

Creative Biogene is your reliable and professional partner in the field of mRNA-based cellular programming and reprogramming. Our synthetic modified mRNA-based approach has been used to directly convert adult human fibroblasts to a series of lineages, providing an efficient system by which to generate model cells for both research and clinical application. If you are interested in our services, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to providing services for your next project.