Pluripotent embryonic-like stem cells, compositions, methods and uses thereof

摘要

A pluripotent embryonic-like stem cell derived from non-embryonic or postnatal animal cells or tissue, capable of self-renewal and capable of differentiation to cells of endodermal, ectodermal and mesodermal lineages; a method of isolating said cells; a method of producing genetically engineered cells; a method for detecting the presence or activity of an agent which is a lineage-commitment factor using said cells; a method of testing the ability of an agent, compound or factor to modulate the lineage-commitment of said cells; and the use of the cells in the manufacture of a medicament for preventing and/or treating cellular debilitations, derangements and /or dysfunctions.