University of Bonn researchers rejuvenate human cells

Researchers at the University of Bonn and the University Hospital of Bonn have successfully rejuvenated human cells in a laboratory setting by reprogramming red blood cell precursors directly into neural stem cells. This process, which bypasses the intermediate pluripotent stem cell stage, significantly resets epigenetic molecular clocks.

In the study published in the journal Aging Cell, cells from a donor aged approximately 80 years were transformed into stem cells with a molecular age of less than 20 years. The conversion process occurs over a period of roughly 50 to 100 days, providing a slow and controlled model for scientists to study the biological mechanisms of cellular aging and neurodegeneration.

By using a cocktail of transcription factors, such as SOX2 and c-MYC, the researchers were able to direct the cells toward a neural lineage. This method allows for the investigation of how cell identity and age markers change during reprogramming, potentially offering new pathways for treating neurodegenerative diseases.