Generation of mammary stem cells by direct reprogramming

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 25670100
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: General anatomy (including histology/embryology)
• Research Institution: Waseda University
• Principal Investigator: SEMBA Kentaro 早稲田大学, 理工学術院, 教授 (70206663)
• Project Period (FY): 2013-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: 幹細胞 / 細胞分化 / 組織形成 / 乳腺

Outline of Final Research Achievements

We constructed gene expression vector systems, which allow transient expression of slug/sox9 genes known to force mammary epithelial cells to dedifferentiate into mammary stem cells. We observed, as reported, that slug/sox9 expressed MEC reconstituted proper mammary ducts when transplanted, although the efficiency was quite low. To solve this problem, we changed donor mice to those expressing rtTA, established culture technology for maintaining mammary stem cells (MaSC), and screened genes enhancing efficiency of dedifferentiation. Among them, we successfully established the MaSC culture technology. In addition, we newly produced a reporter mouse for stemness. With these technologies, we now established screening system of genes enhancing dedifferentiation, easily, rapidly, and efficiently. However, we have not yet discovered any new direct reprogramming genes strongly leading to produce MaSCs.

Free Research Field

分子生物学