A joint research group of Kyoto University and Shiga University of Medical Science elucidated the dynamics of primate pluripotent cells in the developmental process by whole-genome-level analysis using cypress monkey embryos, and revealed the pluripotent state of human ES / iPS cells. Announced that the actual situation was clarified.Published in the British scientific journal "Nature".

 Almost all studies on early mammalian embryos, especially post-implantation embryos, have been performed using mice from a technical and ethical point of view.Mouse ES cells are known to be established from pre-implantation embryos and exhibit a "naive type" with broad differentiation potential, but primate ES cells including humans are also established from pre-implantation embryos. Nevertheless, it has been shown that it may be a "prime type" with more limited differentiation potential.In recent years, with the development of iPS cells, the application of pluripotent stem cells to medical treatment and drug discovery is expected, but the actual state of pluripotency of primate ES / iPS cells is unknown and unclear. rice field.

 In this study, we analyzed the expression of all genes in the embryos before and after implantation of cynomolgus monkey, which is a closely related species of Japanese macaque, using a single-cell gene expression analysis method developed independently.As a result, it was found that primates maintain a stable and pluripotent state for more than a week compared to mice, even though they cause "gastrula invagination".

 Furthermore, using these data, we succeeded in identifying the gene set that characterizes the change in pluripotent state during monkey development.When the expression of this gene set was examined, it was found that human iPS cells were in the same state as monkey pluripotent cells about 3 week after implantation and in a state homologous to mouse embryos before invagination of the archenteron.From this, the positional relationship of pluripotent cells in the three species of humans, monkeys, and mice on the developmental coordinates is clarified, and primate ES / iPS cells are intermediate between "naive" and "prime" pluripotency in mice. It was also found to be located in.

 This study reveals the comprehensive dynamics of primate pluripotent cells and at the same time complements the findings lacking in human embryogenesis from an academic point of view.In the future, it is expected that the foundation for research aimed at elucidating the onset mechanism of infertility before and after implantation will be formed, and the development of medical treatment and drug discovery using human pluripotent stem cells will be promoted.

Kyoto University

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With the motto of self-study, we will continue to maintain a free academic style that is not bound by common sense, and develop human resources who have both creativity and practical ability.We provide an inclusive learning space that allows for diverse and hierarchical choices so that students themselves can choose a solid future through valuable trial and error. […]

Shiga Medical University

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We will develop trusted medical personnel through education and research in unique medicine and nursing while making the best use of the characteristics of the region.Furthermore, by training researchers who disseminate information to the world, we will contribute to the improvement and development of human health, medical care, and welfare.While conferring a wealth of education and a high degree of specialized knowledge and skills, a solid […]

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