Yamanaka factors

Yamanaka factors are a set of four specific genes—Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc—that, when introduced into specialized adult cells, can reprogram them into pluripotent stem cells. These stem cells have the ability to develop into any cell type in the body, similar to embryonic stem cells. This discovery by Shinya Yamanaka revealed that mature cells can be reset to an embryonic-like state, offering potential for regenerative medicine. The process involves manipulating gene expression to re-establish a versatile, youthful cell state, enabling advancements in tissue repair, disease modeling, and personalized therapies.