Depletion of Canonical Histones Enhances Direct Reprogramming of Scavenger Cells in vivo

Cellular reprogramming offers a promising approach for replacing damaged cells and repairing diseased tissues. In this context, understanding the implications of diverse molecular pathways that regulate cell fate conversion in vivo is necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of reprogrammed cell therapy.

The nematode C. elegans is a powerful model organism for dissecting molecular processes in vivo and has previously been used to identify reprogramming barriers that are conserved in mammals. Here, we describe the discovery of an unprecedented TF-induced direct reprogramming instance that allows the conversion of mesodermal scavenger cells with hepatic function, known as coelomocytes (CCs) in C. elegans. Direct reprogramming of CCs into neuron-like cells results in the acquisition of neuronal characteristics with corresponding gene expression.