A molecular roadmap for the emergence of early-embryonic-like cells in culture

Nat Genet. 2018 Jan;50(1):106-119. doi: 10.1038/s41588-017-0016-5. Epub 2017 Dec 18.

Abstract

Unlike pluripotent cells, which generate only embryonic tissues, totipotent cells can generate a full organism, including extra-embryonic tissues. A rare population of cells resembling 2-cell-stage embryos arises in pluripotent embryonic stem (ES) cell cultures. These 2-cell-like cells display molecular features of totipotency and broader developmental plasticity. However, their specific nature and the process through which they arise remain outstanding questions. Here we identified intermediate cellular states and molecular determinants during the emergence of 2-cell-like cells. By deploying a quantitative single-cell expression approach, we identified an intermediate population characterized by expression of the transcription factor ZSCAN4 as a precursor of 2-cell-like cells. By using a small interfering RNA (siRNA) screen, we identified epigenetic regulators of 2-cell-like cell emergence, including the non-canonical PRC1 complex PRC1.6 and the EP400-TIP60 complex. Our data shed light on the mechanisms that underlie exit from the ES cell state toward the formation of early-embryonic-like cells in culture and identify key epigenetic pathways that promote this transition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Line
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental*
  • Mice
  • Single-Cell Analysis
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism
  • Transcriptome

Substances

  • Transcription Factors