Trying to Reveal the Mysteries of Stem Cells Using “Omics” Strategies

Abstract

Owing to their self-renewal property and ability to differentiate toward various cell types of the human body, stem cells sound as an Utopian dream in regenerative medicine field. Thanks to remarkable achievements in novel technologies responsible for elucidation of stem cell biology, scientists try to revolutionize common concepts of conventional medications used for treatment of incurable diseases. Stem cells could ideally regenerate damaged tissues and eradicate the source of the problem and offer unique therapeutic strategies. Big data acquired by modern biological tools corresponding for different levels of governing stem cell fate help us more accurately identify fundamental principles involved in stem cell processes regulation. It has been revealed that key determinants of cellular behavior come from the five main omics studies encompassing genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. High-throughput analysis of multiple modalities of omics data contributes to precise understanding of sequential processes from DNA codes to metabolites which are the final products of decoding DNA information. Incorporation of these novel insights paves the way for the use of stem cells capacities in order to provide the most effective medications, drugs, as well as preventive health measure.