Abstract: The present invention is based in part on methods of differentiating fibroblast cells into adipocytes, osteocytes and chondrocytes. Additionally, the present invention provides agents and kits useful for differentiating fibroblast cells in adipocytes, osteocytes and chondrocytes. Further, the present invention provides for enhanced extracellular matrix deposition using complex sugars.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of altering the differentiative state of cells utilizing innovative protein expression constructs encoding transcription factors. The methods and compositions described herein may be used to generate induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, as well as differentiate, transdifferentiate or dedifferentiate cells of various epigenetic status. The method includes introduction of a nucleic acid construct, or expression product thereof, into a cell, and culture of the cell under culture conditions that efficiently converts the cell into a pluripotent cell, enhances the retention of the pluripotent state or efficiently converts the cell into a cell of a cell lineage corresponding to endoderm, mesoderm or ectoderm.

Abstract: A transgenic mouse with alterations in an abc1 gene is prepared by introduction of an altered abc1 gene into a host animal. The resulting transgenic mice do not produce functional ABC1 protein molecules. Cells and cell lines derived from these animals also contain the altered abc1 gene.