| abstract |
Disclosed is a composition for reprogramming somatic cells to generate embryonic stem cell-like cells, comprising: a) a Bmi1 (B cell-specific Moloney murine leukemia virus integration site 1) protein or a nucleic acid molecule coding for Bmi1; and b) an Oct4 protein or a nucleic acid molecule coding for Oct4. Also, a method is provided for reprogramming somatic cells to generate embryonic stem cell-like cells using the composition. In addition to reducing the number of the genetic factors conventionally needed, the composition and method allow the generation of pluripotent embryonic stem cell-like cells which have high potential in the cell therapy of various diseases. |