Embryonic stem cells: a novel paradigm to study proteostasis?. (27th July 2016) - Lee, Hyun Ju
Abstract : Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) exhibit a striking ability to replicate continuously in the absence of senescence. Despite the knowledge gained into ESC biology and cell reprogramming, the mechanisms that regulate their pluripotency, self‐renewal, and differentiation remain largely unknown. Recently, cumulative evidence has highlighted the importance of protein homeostasis, or proteostasis, in the maintenance of ESC function. These findings indicate that ESCs exhibit intrinsic differences in the regulation and activity of key nodes of the proteostasis network such as global protein synthesis, folding, and degradation rates. Here, we review new insights into proteostasis of ESCs and the questions raised by these findings. In addition, we discuss the potential of these discoveries to be applied into aging and cancer research. Abstract : Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) do not undergo senescence and can replicate indefinitely. Growing evidence indicates that ESCs exhibit intrinsic differences in the regulation of protein homeostasis, or proteostasis, to maintain their immortality. Here, we review new insights into proteostasis of ESCs with a special focus on protein synthesis, folding and degradation networks. In addition, we discuss the potential of these discoveries to be applied into aging and cancer research.