The direct differentiation of fibroblast cells into adipocytes through small chemical molecules

The direct differentiation (transdifferentiation) of cells through small chemical molecules (SCMs) eliminates the disadvantages of previous reprogramming methods and have great promises in regenerative medicine. According to the developed reprogramming studies, SCMs are bioactive molecules which can be effective in targeting cellular pathways, differentiation, epigenetic modifications or metabolic processes without the need for ectopic gene expression. In this thesis, it was aimed to determine SCMs which may be effective in human fibroblasts transdifferentiation into adipocyte-like cells. To that point, different combinations of SCMs, which may be effective in adipocyte differentiation from dH1f cells, were applied to cells in different stages of culturing conditions. The most effective chemical combinations were determined by characterization of lipid droplets accumulation and adipocyte specific gene expression analysis. The results showed high rate of lipid accumulation in the cells treated with 3-Deazaneplanocin (DZNep) and RepSox combination. Higher expression of adipocyte specific genes were observed in these cells compared to control groups and cells treated with other SCMs combinations. In conclusion, there need to further optimization and use other species' cell types to direct SCMs-based adipocyte transdifferentiation to regenerative medicine especially new treatment approaches in obesity and any diseases related to obesity.