New technique produces genetically identical stem cells
Cells from mice created using genetically reprogrammed cells can be triggered via drug administration (doxycycline) to enter an embryonic-stem-cell-like state without the need for further direct genetic manipulation.
This technical advancement enables creation of large numbers of genetically identical cells that can be reprogrammed to an embryonic-stem-cell-like state simply by exposure to a drug. Researchers can exploit such cells to decipher and improve the reprogramming process.