Maintaining genomic stability in pluripotent stem cells

Abstract

Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are capable of generating all types of cells in the body and have promising applications in basic research and cell-based regenerative medicine. Compared to the differentiated cells, PSCs are superior in maintaining genomic stability. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are far from clear. Here, we summarized the understandings on the molecules and pathways that PSCs specifically utilize to cope with DNA replication-associated stress, to repair DNA damages and to determine cell fates.