Reprogramming and Differentiation

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Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are similar to the cells in an early-stage embryo, having the potential to become any cell type in the body. We create iPSCs by taking patient blood cells and "reprogramming" them using specific genes. These reprogrammed cells can then be guided to differentiate into specific heart cells, such as muscle cells for pumping or electrical cells for rhythm control. This process mimics the natural development in an embryo. Beyond the heart, iPSCs can also differentiate into other types of cells like those in the brain or liver. This technology is crucial for studying diseases and developing new treatments.