Establishment and Characterization of Naïve Pluripotency in Human Embryonic Stem Cells.

Mouse embryonic stem cells are known to represent the naïve state of pluripotency, while human embryonic stem cells typically represented the primed state of pluripotency, characterized by a higher drift toward differentiation and some other disadvantages. Here we describe an efficient method for rapid, transgene free induction of the naïve pluripotent state in human by applying a novel combination of small molecules and growth factors in the culture medium (2i, LIF, basic fibroblast growth factor, ascorbic acid, and forskolin). Conversion of primed human embryonic stem cells towards the naive pluripotent state should be confirmed by a detailed characterization of the cells, as described in this chapter.