Reprogramming fibroblasts to express T-cell functions using cell extracts

Nat Biotechnol. 2002 May;20(5):460-6. doi: 10.1038/nbt0502-460.

Abstract

We demonstrate here the functional reprogramming of a somatic cell using a nuclear and cytoplasmic extract derived from another somatic cell type. Reprogramming of 293T fibroblasts in an extract from primary human T cells or from a transformed T-cell line is evidenced by nuclear uptake and assembly of transcription factors, induction of activity of a chromatin remodeling complex, histone acetylation, and activation of lymphoid cell specific genes. Reprogrammed cells express T cell specific receptors and assemble the interleukin-2 receptor in response to T cell receptor CD3 (TCR CD3) complex stimulation. Reprogrammed primary skin fibroblasts also express T cell specific antigens. After exposure to a neuronal precursor extract, 293T fibroblasts express a neurofilament protein and extend neurite-like outgrowths. In vitro reprogramming of differentiated somatic cells creates possibilities for producing isogenic replacement cells for therapeutic applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biotechnology / methods
  • CD3 Complex / metabolism
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Line
  • Cell Nucleus / metabolism
  • Chromatin / metabolism
  • Cytoplasm / metabolism
  • Fibroblasts / metabolism*
  • Genetic Techniques*
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-2 / metabolism
  • Jurkat Cells
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism
  • Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • T-Lymphocytes / physiology*
  • Time Factors
  • Transcription, Genetic

Substances

  • CD3 Complex
  • Chromatin
  • Histones
  • Interleukin-2
  • RNA, Messenger