RNA reprogramming technology generates virus-free iPSCs

Simplicon™ RNA Reprogramming Technology uses synthetic self-replicating RNA to create large numbers of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using a single transfection step. The efficient reprogramming of somatic cells is accomplished without viral intermediates or host genome integration, offering a more defined and safer system for iPSC generation. The technology uses a single synthetic, polycistronic self-replicating RNA strand engineered to mimic cellular RNA. The RNA strand contains the four reprogramming factors, OCT-4, KLF-4, SOX-2 and GLIS1, and enables the creation of integration- and virus-free iPSCs using only one transfection step. Merck Millipore