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Review
. 2017 May 25;8(1):118.
doi: 10.1186/s13287-017-0569-3.

Direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes

Yueqiu Chen  1   2 , Ziying Yang  1 , Zhen-Ao Zhao  3 , Zhenya Shen  4
Affiliations
Review

Direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes

Yueqiu Chen et al. Stem Cell Res Ther. .

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in the world. The limited regenerative capacity of adult cardiomyocytes is the major barrier for heart regeneration. After myocardial infarction, myofibroblasts are the dominant cell type in the infarct zone. Therefore, it is a good idea to reprogram terminally differentiated myofibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cells directly, providing a good strategy to simultaneously reduce scar tissue and increase functional cardiomyocytes. Transcription factors were first identified to reprogram myofibroblasts into cardiomyocytes. Thereafter, microRNAs and/or small molecules showed great potential to optimize the reprogramming process. Here, we systemically summarize and compare the major progress in directed cardiac reprogramming including transcription factors and miRNAs, especially the small molecules. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges needed to be overcome to apply this strategy clinically.

Keywords: Cardiomyocyte; Direct reprogramming; Fibroblast; MicroRNA; Small molecule; Transcription factor.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The potential application of reprogramming fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes. The means of direct reprogramming through transcription factors, microRNAs, and small molecules are shown in vitro and in vivo. AAV adeno-associated virus, FGF fibroblast growth factor, MI myocardial infarction, TGF transforming growth factor, VEGF vascular endothelial growth factor
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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