• OCT4is a key regulator of stem cell pluripotency. ReducedOCT4经验值ression leads to differentiation. It is highly expressed in pluripotent cells early embryo on in embryonic development.

• SOX2plays an important role in maintaining pluripotency. ReducedSOX2induces differentiation.

• KLF4is involved in a wide range of cellular processes including development, proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Simultaneous reduction causes differentiation.

• c-MYChas important functions in proliferation, differentiation, and cell growth.

These four genes are introduced intosomatic cells, usually byretroviralvectors. Once these genes are integrated into the somatic cell genome, they are expressed in转录因子proteins. The transcription factors will induce the expression of endogenous genes such asNANOG,SOX2andOCT4, which are important for pluripotency characteristics.