Using small molecules to great effect in stem cell differentiation

Cell Stem Cell. 2009 May 8;4(5):373-4. doi: 10.1016/j.stem.2009.04.012.

Abstract

Several recent reports, including two Cell Stem Cell papers (Zhu et al., 2009 [this issue]; Borowiak et al., 2009), screened small molecule libraries for compounds that promote embryonic stem cell differentiation. Their combined success helps bypass challenges associated with using natural protein factors and has revealed insights into controlling stem cell differentiation.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / drug effects
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / pharmacology*
  • Mice
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism

Substances

  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Transcription Factors