Korea University Researchers Transform Ordinary Cells into Heart Muscle Cells with New Technique - Video

A research team has unveiled an innovative technique to convert fibroblasts-common connective tissue cells-into mature and functional induced cardiomyocytes (iCMs). Their method relies on combining fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4) with vitamin C, a pairing that accelerates cell maturation and enhances function. The findings are published in experimental and molecular medicine.

“Our findings bring us closer to transforming regenerative medicine into practical therapies,” says Dr. Song, who is based at Korea University’s Department of Cardiology and in Seoul, South Korea. “This research takes an important step toward using a patient’s own cells to repair their heart.” Direct cardiac reprogramming, a process that bypasses the intermediate stem cell stage, allows fibroblasts to be converted into induced cardiomyocytes. While this approach holds significant promise, scientists have struggled to produce mature and fully functional cardiomyocytes. The Korea University team addressed this hurdle by activating a critical cellular mechanism: the JAK2–STAT3 signaling pathway.

Through their research, the scientists employed advanced techniques like RNA sequencing, fluorescence imaging, and electrophysiological testing. Their results revealed key improvements: better cell structure with well-defined sarcomeres and T-tubules, enhanced electrical activity with improved ion channel function, and a higher efficiency in generating mature, fully reprogrammed cardiomyocytes.

By promoting mature cardiomyocytes from a patient’s own tissue, it may one day be possible to repair damage from heart attacks or other cardiovascular conditions. Such an approach could reduce reliance on heart transplants and potentially revolutionize treatments for millions of patients.

Reference: Jun, S., Song, MH., Choi, SC. et al. FGF4 and ascorbic acid enhance the maturation of induced cardiomyocytes by activating JAK2–STAT3 signaling. Exp Mol Med 56, 2231–2245 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s12276-024-01321-z