| abstract |
The present invention relates generally to the field of tissue engineering and genetic manipulation of cells and to methods for generating tissue suitable for use in repair, replacement, rejuvenation or augmentation therapy. Even more particularly, the present invention contemplates a method for genetically manipulating a stem cell by introducing a nucleic acid molecule comprising a centromere or neocentromere into the stem cell or a parent of the stem cell, wherein the nucleic acid molecule conveys genetic information which is capable of introducing to or modifying a trait within the stem cell or progeny of the stem cell such as but not limited to modulating the level of stem cell proliferation, differentiation and/or self-renewal. The engineered stem cells are useful inter alia in tissue repair, replacement, rejuvenation and/or augmentation therapy. The engineered stem cells may also be re-programmed, for example, to direct the cells down a different cell lineage. |