Enhanced proliferation and differentiation of Oct4- and Sox2-overexpressing human adipose tissue mesenchymal stem cells.

Researchers in Korea have shown that forced expression of two genes stimulates growth in adult stem cells, increasing their potential therapeutic applications. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a type of adult stem cell, lack the developmental flexibility of embryonic stem cells but can potentially repair tissues such as bone or cartilage and are easily harvested from fat tissue. Hee-Woo Lee and Hwa-Young Youn of Seoul National University have shown that forcing MSCs to express the Sox2 and Oct4 genes increases their viability and capacity to multiply. These two genes help lock MSCs in their developmentally immature state, while maintaining their capacity to differentiate into fat or bone cells. This treatment could greatly boost the clinical usefulness of these cells, which normally lose their stem cell qualities over time when cultured.